Peril's Gate

Wars of Light and Shadow #6

by Janny Wurts

The Barnes & Noble Review
Peril's Gate is the third installment in Janny Wurts's Wars of Light and Shadow series. For those who have yet to read Curse of the Mistwraith and Grand Conspiracy, be sure to pick them up, because this is turning into one of the best fantasy series out there.

The story follows the fate of two half brothers. Lysaer, who is fair of hair and small in stature, is considered the Gift of Light; he is the born ruler of his land. Arithon, however, is quite the opposite of his brother in more than just looks. Considered a pirate and rogue, the dark-haired Master of Shadows and Magery is pitted against Lysaer just as they begin to work out a truce.

Peril's Gate follows the next stage in this war, a fight that neither brother really wants. Stuck in the winter land, hiding from his enemies, Arithon finds help in the most unlikely of people: Devian, the sorcerer who was one of the chief proponents of this war, has now reached out a helpful hand to the Master of Shadows. But can Arithon trust the sorcerer? (L.H.)

Genres: Fantasy, Epic Fantasy, Fiction, Science Fiction Fantasy, High Fantasy, Epic, Science Fiction

940 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published July 1, 2001

About the author

Janny 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

Reviews

[Choko · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mesmerizing!

As always, Ms. Wurts weaves a tale of hope and despair, light and darkness, life and death, such that the reader loses track of time and reality... Her style is not for everyone, and it seems to me that most either love it or hate it, but I happen to be one of those who love it and feel richer for having found this epic story and it becoming part of my life.

In this sixth book in the series, the curse is triggered by the witches, using an unsuspecting young man as the bait for Arithon, who knowingly throws himself into the trap, following his principles and ready to give his life for that of an innocent person. His return to the continent aroused the network of fanatics around the Prince of Light and with the help of the witches they set on the heels of the trapped Spinner of Darkness. Beloved characters are imperiled and as always, danger surrounds not only Arithon and his friends, but the faith of the world and possibly the universe itself. The ones who are capable of protecting the fragile human existence and the continuation of the planet as is, are stretched to their limits and the arisen crisis could be the final straw... Ignorance of the dept of the problem is a major problem, because those who also wheeled power keep compounding the problem instead of assisting in its solution. The circumstances are dire... Enters a player whose motives are very questionable and whose history is less than reliable, but he might be the extra boost the Fellowship and Arithon need in order to survive...

I was mesmerized by this difficult and painful chapter of the saga, often overwhelmed by despair and full of empathy for all involved. I feel such angst towards the curse which twists even the best intentions of our leading characters, and the seeming futility of their struggles to overcome it. I really hope that by the end of the series we could see this curse toppled and our heroes able to at least temper the harm they have created while under its influence... We will have to wait and see 👀

Now I wish you all Happy reading and may you always find what you need in the pages of a good book! 😃

[Olivia · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars, but I might turn this into five stars upon a re-read.

Wurts isn't an easy author to read, especially not for a non native speaker. She demands attention to detail. It's not a 'bus book,' and not a 'just before you fall asleep book' either. Wurts' prose is dense, complex, and her plot and her characters' motivations reveal themselves slowly, and sometimes I feel like every single word in this series has a specific purpose.

The world building is spectacular, and there's centuries of history, dozens of races, and so much to discover...

This is epic fantasy at its best, and I highly recommend that any fan of the genre pick it up and stick with it. It's worth it and incredibly compelling.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hands down one of the best books I've ever read! And my favourite of the series so far.
RTC

[Booksblabbering || Cait❣️ · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you like Fitz from the Realm of the Elderings, let me introduce you to Arthion.

Fionn Areth has become the new early version Dakar. He is fighting back against his teachers due to his inimically misguided loyalties, despite the fact enemies hound their backs without respite.

One massive source of change (which has finally got the plot moving in exciting new directions), is a change of succession and a new Prime Matriarch twisted up in deceit.
Morriel’s plot upset the lane forces, a move that majorly crippled Fellowship resources and made the compact loom dangerously.
I hate Prime Matriarch Selidie. Competing for top villain.

‘There is no terror so powerful as the one never faced. That sithaer, that hell, must not rule your mind. The man who makes the water his friend is the master who breasts the current and learns how to tame it through partnership.’

I feel like there is so much potential with young Prince Kevor, whose bravery at the untried age of fourteen saw a great save in the last book. Coupled with his mother’s determination for the truth, Lysaer’s regime may come toppling down as things are revealed.

Arithon spends a lot of time alone in the book. This results in a lot of self-reflection.
Too much.
Especially in the last 30% where it is basically a quick recap of all the events he hates himself for. Where self-recrimination pains him.
There is more than 100 PAGES of reliving his past.

‘He has no family,’ the high mage agreed, leaving his vantage at the seaside casement. The brass loops of the armillary reflected his haunted pacing as he resumed his unbending diatribe. ‘That’s Arithon’s greatest setback, one he must rise to overcome. Praise will draw on that weakness most powerfully. He’s an unformed boy! He’ll seek to please you, then bend his opinions to earn your favor. Just to feel less alone, he will lose the ability to listen to his innate inner balance. How will he, how can he ever manage to master the vast scope of his talent if he forgets how to think for himself?’

I would say this is the darkest book so far in terms of cruelty, especially physical.

Had it not been for the 60-85%, this could have been so much tighter and impactful.

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[Alissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whole series spoiler free
Awesome ending to an awesome book. I have finished Peril’s Gate so I am slightly more than half-way through the series and seamlessly enjoying the journey so far. The latest developments of the story really prompted me for a look back at the series from where I am. I loved the series and I had high expectancies, but the emotional impact of this book, along with the revelations, the grim, the hope, the brutal pace and the unforeseen twists of the story, all served with a gorgeous writing style, had me totally, utterly and helplessly enraptured.

This is a series that sticks, within. And I don’t think time will prove me false (to date, I’m reading Stormed Fortress, the end of the Alliance of Light Arc, I am basically devouring the pages, and decided to finish this review before adding too many layers of impressions). Peril’s Gate, which is both deep and fast-paced, triggered all sorts of considerations.

I guess this is the “tipping point” in the Alliance of Light Arc where the story starts to run back over itself in bigger and bigger ripples, where the unveilings are moving all the markers (yet again, last time was Fugitive Prince where the conflict acquired a worldwide scope and the stage was set accordingly) and shift my perspective as reader, at the same time as things pick up speed, going forward. Also, all the books offer both action-packed scenes and more explanatory chapters that deepen the knowledge and the mystery. This style adds to my enjoyment immensely. Immediately after this book I've read Traitor's Knot and the story is even intensifying into convergence with no letup in pace. Wurts has proven herself a master of suspense, the delivery is there, and with each title in the series, it builds tighter and faster.

Original, trope-upending and clever clever clever plot. The story is clearly not linear, it progresses in spirals and the reader's viewpoint of events continues to rise and deepen, and to re-form the prior awareness; Peril's Gate proves the point with stark clarity, this kind of folding back on the threads to open up more information the further one reads requires some focus, and this progressive shifting of the vantage narrative technique relies on the fact that all the previous books have been read. Being on lookout for nuances while going with the story flow is one of the many layers of entertainment I love in this series, all the more now, because I'm aware there are many subtleties at play, of different nature (this adds to the game immensely). The story spans many years and it's divided in logical Arcs, but the access point I would recommend in hindsight is, indeed, book 1, The Curse of the Mistwraith. Or, for a twist, this very same book, Peril’s Gate, where the convergence hits most heavily. The long range nature of this tale is truly truly amazing, the longer I read, the more rewarding the experience gets.

Harmony and balance. The story can really verge on the grim, bleak and bloody, but it is always, if not outright, followed by transcendence and even the grittiest subjects, handled with the gloves off, integrate with artistry and purpose. This goes for the bright and humorous facets as well. Wurts does not want to shock graphically, but she successfully evokes the reader's emotions to experience the story for himself, and the series draws off the full spectrum in human outlook, there is beauty and horror, grace and downfall - the full balance is present.
The world of Athera is very deep, very high, and restricted by a precise compact from certain kinds of development. If I ever thought to miss multiple continents full of different flavors of strife (which I didn't in this case), it becomes clear there is a reason for the selective focus, particularly the avoidance of story loose ends (no sprawl!) and the complex, huge worldbuilding which lends solidity to Athera itself. Peril’s Gate shows quite clearly why many aspects of the world were disclosed very gradually, even if the workings of, say, the Sorcerers or the Koriathain are described in detail in the first books, where the knowledge as the whys and hows is limited.

The prose, ah! Painting words. The rich style fits the story; it is an element in its own right, for both the serious and playful parts. It is meant to create an immersive reading experience and it reads extremely smoothly when the reader comes to expect to visualize and sense what is happening in the book. The final chapters of Peril’s Gate are a fitting testimony to the many techniques applied and the role played by the reader emotions during the characters ordeals. Janny Wurts writes with purpose and never neutrally. She marries the complexity of the English language with the complexity of the story and the characters. A rich use of adjectives often arranged in unexpected combinations enables her to express all the nuances of what is real and what is perception, and her whole narrative seeks out a kind of precision that goes beyond simple descriptions and dialogues. From the pages one can feel her background as painter and musician, and her experiences with sailing, horse raiding and mountaineering, so infused in the action.

Deep characters and deep motivations. All the characters are complex and layered. I interpreted them differently as the story progressed and shifted my perceptions, the focus is on depth anyway, and much care is put into characterization and study of the human spirit, in all its forms. Some are not predictable at first: Arithon, Lysaer and the Sorcerers can be hermetic in the first book, the reader is not spoon-fed the “truth” or the whole logic behind their behaviours, and one is sometimes lured into false perceptions coming from unreliable POVs, and deliberately shown just a little insight pertaining the active forces of Athera and the real plight of the land. More pieces of the puzzle click into place in the following books, but never all at once or in sequence, and the cohesive picture starts to reveal itself. I like to engage my brains, and part of the fun of this series and its layered plot/character structure is, after all, the clobbering of my assumptions headlong.

Huge, insane amounts of research behind the descriptions, and of planning behind the scenes. No coincidence that hints or baffling facts or simple happenings in one book lay the groundwork for whole scenes, or a massive revelation one or even more books later. It means it is carefully designed, tended, built and delivered to maximum impact. After being at the receiving end of many such surprises, and particularly now that I am mid-series and see a fuller picture, I clearly realize that if part of the initial story is focused on details, context-shaping and the whole series never features an omniscient viewpoint, everything is necessary to let the tension grow and deliberate to converge to a point where there is no slowing in the pace at all and the reachable heights of fun are most rewarding. There are many intense climax moments in the series, but Peril’s Gate goes further. I think the books challenge clear sightedness, and invite people who like thought-provoking, non-linear, unpredictable, solid plots and who like books that want to be courted, which don't let the reader get it all at once; there are lots of events and sweeping sequences and hard facts in the starting volumes, along with the introduction of the characters, but also questions, which get answers in time, doubt not. Payoff is the key. Hats off to the author, who never sacrifices coherency for narrative expediency and shows adherence to a brilliant, original design.

When I first "discovered" Janny Wurts through her impeccable fantasy standalone gem To Ride Hell’s Chasm (totally recommended as entry point to Wurts work), I had not been reading epic fantasy for some time and I was surprised to be so powerfully affected by the Wars of Light and Shadow series, I didn’t think I could resonate so much with the characters of a world so entrenched in magic. Yet the element that I though a liability worked marvellously well for me, because there are no omniscient characters or lack of rules here, not at all, there are humans with their merits, flaws, personal histories and inclinations living in a very complex and superbly designed world, with its governing principles and dynamics. The mixed opinions about the first book, The Curse of the Mistwraith, also puzzled me, but now I’m totally happy about the choice to read it and decide for myself, because it would have been a mistake to miss this glorious journey.

[Blaise · Rating 5 out of 5]

https://undertheradarsffbooks.com/202...

Everything we have learned on our journey up until now and in some case including Peril’s Gate will change. The culmination of planning, foreshadowing, and patience on the part of Janny Wurts for years has come into full bloom. The results will leave you emotionally, physically, and physiologically drained like running the New York City marathon. I was not ready for this tale to be told, but this is just the tipping point in this series and there is no turning back. Full steam ahead for me until the end (which Janny is just about to complete!) This will be a spoiler free review but I will be touching upon certain events from the previous novels.

Please do not continue to read if you have not read up to and including Grand Conspiracy as this section will contain spoilers. The Grand Conspiracy has taken place as the Morriel Prime and her minions have unleased the powers of her order of Athera itself. Causing the balances of nature and order to be out of focus, the Fellowship has to fix the balances before evil is unleashed. Meanwhile the plan to capture the Master of Shadow using Fionn as bait has failed and the two are on the run from the city guards and the Koriani. Meanwhile, the attack by the Prime has caused another presence from pasted to be brought back to the land once again. I won’t spoil it for anybody but the ramifications for this are huge and the story will be shaped drastically by this character. I can’t go into much more detail than that due to spoilers but I want to explore the ever evolving themes present in Janny Wurts masterpiece.

Peril’s Gate is indeed the tipping point in the series and events that have taking place in the previous 5 books will be shown through a different lens. But beyond that, this book is about discovering not some great power or enemy that needs to be defeated. The true enemy lies within ourselves and the limitations that bind us to the chains of the human psyche. Several different characters will be put through turmoil and pain on both sides of the conflict but the way these conflicts are handle will shape the person they will choose to be.

Some will take there pain out on others while other will internalize the conflict and the destruction will slowly eat away at the inner shields. Relationships as well as redemption are the driving forces in this novel and I can’t express enough how much of a gut punch these themes will deliver. Elaria’s undying love for Arithon will be put to the test in more ways than one and it will have you screaming for relief. Jieret’s devotion and pride for Arithon and the duties he must fullfill. Even the Morriel Prime lust for vengeance will have lasting effects on her relationship with the Koriani and the future is not so clear.

Self discovery and forgiveness can not be expressed enough both as a center focus for Peril’s Gate but in everyday life. This past year has been terrible to say the least and in some cases a nightmare. I can’t imagine the pain some people might be feeling, but one thing this series has taught me is that don’t go through this alone. It is ok to be vulnerable and defeated as long as we let the ones who love us share in our pain. Nothing will last forever and brighter days will come. Learn to forgive yourself of your past indiscretions and shortcomings but never forget the past. I will leave you with my favorite quote from Peril’s Gate: “What is a flaw but a human mistake, or an ignorance that sees without options?” We are our own worst enemy and the hardest struggles are the ones within. This series made me realize that and I am beyond grateful to Janny Wurts for this journey. The die is cast and the march has begun to the end.

Cheers!

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

A brilliant scintillating climax of a book as each battle Arithon must face, whether with his half brother, or with the Koriani, or with the myriad of characters and forces along the way stops my heart in fear that he will be killed or destroyed. His beloved Elaira is with him in spirit as he faces the most grueling trial ever - Kewar's Maze. Here he faces the most fearsome enemy ever -- himself -- and finally comes face to face with a mighty centaur. All others have died in this maze, unable to come to grips with the consequences of their own behavior.

I repeat - Mistwraith is an incredibly compelling, action filled, gut wrenching, heart stopping adventure with one of the loveliest love stories I've read in a long time.

ETA: As usual reread reveals more under layers of meaning. I'd forgotten Davien admits his incitement of the rebellion against the high kings was his Haven, with no more successful results.

[Stefan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peril’s Gate picks up right where Grand Conspiracy left off: Arithon is once again on the run, pursued by an Alliance of Light army led by its Lord Commander, Sulfin Evend, and his half-brother Lysaer. The Koriani enchantresses are also still trying to capture Arithon, with Elaira forced to walk a precarious line between betraying her order and helping her beloved. In Arithon’s desperate bid to stay ahead and stay alive, he receives help from Earl Jieret’s war band, an elite force but one surely not strong enough to prevail against the vast forces of the Alliance of Light. The Fellowship of Seven is unable to lend much assistance, as they are scrambling to keep Athera from falling apart... but help may still reach Arithon from an unexpected — and maybe unwelcome — direction...

Parts of Peril’s Gate have the same level of suspense as the second half of To Ride Hell’s Chasm, which is one of my favorite standalone fantasies. In one sense, this book is one big chase scene similar to the end of Hell’s Chasm, but because these characters and this world have by now, after five previous novels in the WARS OF LIGHT AND SHADOW series, acquired so much depth and so many layers, the wild chase in Peril’s Gate has much more impact than you’d expect and may just be the most dramatic chase scene I’ve ever encountered in any medium.

Still, while the chase takes center stage, there are several sub-chapters offering glimpses of other events taking place on Athera, so the story continues to deepen even as you’re pulled along in the whirlwind of Arithon’s desperation. Most significantly, Janny Wurts describes the Fellowship’s desperate efforts to protect the planet after Morriel’s misguided actions at the end of Grand Conspiracy, but you’ll also read about the actions of Prince Kevor, Dakar and Fionn Areth, the machinations of the Koriani enchantresses, and several others.

The final quarter of the book contains one of the most grueling scenes in the series so far, as Arithon is forced to relive the most traumatizing events in his past, this time experiencing them from more than just his own perspective. Janny Wurts doesn’t pull any punches describing this truly harrowing experience, which at times is so intense it may give readers a visceral reaction. At the same time, this unforgettable finale shows Arithon growing and transcending his suffering in an almost mystical way, giving Peril’s Gate a spiritual dimension that’s quite unlike anything I’ve encountered in fantasy before.

There are other chapters and scenes in this book that are simply unforgettable, making Peril’s Gate one of the strongest installments in the series so far. You’ll find true heroism and heartbreaking sacrifice in the chapters focusing on the Companions as they try to protect their liege Arithon. You’ll also learn much more about Athera and its history. Finally, even though you won’t find an “Ars Arcanum” section at the back of these books, there are several highly intricate magic systems displayed in these novels, and Peril’s Gate begins to show their differences as well the real depth behind them for the first time.

While the first two novels in the Alliance of Light arc of this series contained a bit more set-up, all the pieces are now firmly in place in Peril’s Gate, resulting in a more rewarding novel that doesn’t let up in pace or intensity until you’ve turned the final page. Not only is this one of the strongest books in the series so far, it’s also one of the most memorable fantasy novels I’ve ever read. Highly recommended.

(This review was also published on 9/23/2010 on the Fantasy Literature website - www.fantasyliterature.com)

[Mawgojzeta · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have held off on reviewing any of the books in this series because I wanted to make sure it maintains quality (with Janny Wurts as the author, I was not all that worried). I have come across several longer series over the years that hit book 5, or 6, or whatever, and just fell flat. Sometimes I have even caught discrepancies because the author could not (or did not) keep track of something mentioned in, for example, book #1. Not the case here at all.

This series is top notch. All the comments that follow would apply to all of the previous books in the series, as well as this one.

1. The attention to detail is perfect, yet never overwhelms.
2. The writing style and choice of words are wonderful; so intelligent and rich. It makes my brain happy.
3. The world created is one you cannot help but become immersed in. This is a fully realized world.
4. Fast readers (like myself) will benefit greatly by slowing down. Janny Wurts does not use filler these books. There is a good chance that if you skim through a few paragraphs, you will miss something important and it that will take away from your experience at some point later on.
5. If this sounds scary, do not worry!!! This is not heavy writing; it will not seem like work. It is full writing and very fulfilling reading.

I highly suspect that this will become my favorite series, once finished.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

For some reason my written review has gone the way of the dodo. The five stars will have to suffice this time ;)

[Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

First book in the series I rated five stars. This is the sixth book in the series, and each book has gotten better and better. Full disclosure, had I read Curse of the Mistwraith, the first book in the series, outside of a Goodread BR I might have never continued to the second book. That would have been a tragedy. I cannot wait to read the next book and even more importantly, cannot wait to reread the entire series!
This is full bore epic fantasy with a breadth and depth rarely seen. I had a certain amount of trouble in the beginning of the series with information overload. Until book three I pretty much didn’t have any characters I really cared about, BUT the story just kept getting better and better. I will say that if you want a mindless read this series is not for you. However, if you want books that will challenge all your personal precepts and will make you think, then the War of Light and Shadow is truly great!

[Jon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm speechless and breathless (and have been for several weeks) after finishing this penultimate tipping-point volume in Janny Wurts' Wars of Light and Shadow series. Even taking a break and reading a half dozen other books hasn't allowed me to express the emotions that wracked me or the wonders assuaging them. Not since reading Janny's To Ride Hell's Chasm has a book's pacing been so unrelenting and rewarding. And to think she wrote that novel after Peril's Gate to step back from writing this series!

I highly recommend this book, but also strongly suggest you not start with this novel. Begin at the beginning, with Curse of the Mistwraith and immerse yourself in all things Atheran.

Please see Stefan's outstanding review of Peril's Gate for a concise synopsis and insightful comments.

[Brian]

This one isn't for the weak of heart! Looking forward to talking about my experience with it on my YouTube channel, BellTube. Come find me there!

[Degenerate Chemist · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reread of WOLAS book six

"Peril's Gate" picks up right after "Grand Conspiracy." I remember that my interest in the WOLAS really started to drop off around this point. This was the last novel I can say that I enjoyed during my first readings.

"Peril's Gate" is a very exposition heavy novel. The magic system and the religion are explained in painful detail. And it is pretty unnecessary if you have been paying any kind of attention to the previous five books.

The book follows Lysaer and Arithon who are once again stuck in their Tom and Jerry routine. The Fellowship is still grossly incompetent. Almost every side character and subplot in this novel is more interesting but they aren't really given the same attention as our protagonists. At this point Lysaer has been pursuing Arithon for thousands of pages.

We have this absolutely lovely subplot with Ellaine and Kevor that had so much potential but never really got fleshed out. The implications of what happened when Jieret awakens his mage sight are incredibly fascinating and do a fantastic job of showing why mage sight is incompatible with a violent lifestyle (far more than 2000 plus pages of Arithon crying) but the whole scene felt half done and rushed. Elaira leaves her order to learn from Ath's adepts but this doesn't get expanded upon all that much either. And to be fair, these things might get more screen time in the next novel, but I don't remember much about the next novel.

[Amelia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every time I finish one of these books, I am so amazed at the level of writing, the depth to the characters and the ideas that keep my mind reeling for days after finishing. This is one of the best books and series I have read in a very long time.

In this, the sixth installment of the Wars of Light and Shadow, the story picks up right where it ended in the previous book, Grand Conspiracy. Arithon is on the run with Fionn Areth and Dakar. He ends up seperating from his two companions and must continue his desperate journey alone. Following Arithon on this journey was one of the most heart wrenching times I've experienced. He has to go through so many trials and hardships, each time losing a little bit of his lead and his heart.

Meanwhile we get to see Elaira truly shining, showing forth an amazing courage and strength. She is a very strong character and I have really come to love her. The Fellowship Sorcerers are also very busy trying to correct the imbalance created in the last book.

This is a riveting read. It kept me on the edge of my seat, tears in my eyes and absolutely enthralled in the story. There are some beautiful scenes in this story that make the read so very worth every second.

Can I say it again, an amazing book!

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't lnow what to say. Janny's work leaves me speechless, and often wrung out with emotion.

Janny writes with such a love of the english language it's like a masterclass; I am constantly filled with delight at the beauty of her prose.

If you are a fan of Erikson, of Donaldson, of Le Guin, and you are NOt reading Janny Wurts, then you are missing out (and what the hell is wrong with you?).

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one began directly after the events in Grand Conspiracy, with Arithon's escape from Jaelot. Without reprieve, a chase ensues for the first 695 +/- pages. That may seem like a lot of pages for a manhunt, but trust me, it was a high-adrenaline page-turner! Once we hit page 695-ish, Arithon goes through the titular gate of peril, and it's almost a relief. Until it's not!!

Although this was 900+ pages, I have to wonder if it was actually one book combined with the previous, since the transition from one to the other was so seamless. If that's the case, the two combined would have made quite the tome ;)

[Rosemary Standeven · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has long chase sequences and periods of potentially apocalyptic jeopardy, occasionally mellowed by fragments of utter peace.
Dakar is left protecting an argumentative, ungrateful Fionn Areth, who had been rescued by Arithon from certain death at the stake. The Fellowship are stretched to near oblivion by the evil conjury of Koriani Prime Morriel’s possession of Selidie, the backlash of which threatens the very structure of the planet. Khadrim fly free, Dragon wards are weakened, and the Rockfell prison containing the Mistwraiths is I danger of being breached.
On the positive side, Ath’s Adepts play a more significant role – protecting Sethvir and Prince Kevor, and guiding Elaira.
And Davien, the betrayer, returns to the story. But, whether the appearances of the former member of the Fellowship are beneficial or not, remains to be seen.
Jieret, Dakar and Arithon all face trials that threaten to unravel their earthly existence.
Prince Lysaer, Lirenda and Morriel/Selidie continue their respective hounding of Arithon.
You know Arithon must survive somehow, as there are more books in the series – but in what state will he be? How much physical and mental damage can one human suffer before they are irredeemably unmade?
It is a long read – but what happens is essential to the story.
I strongly recommend this series – but you do need to read all the books in order. It is a mirror to our own world’s politics and belief systems, and very thought provoking.

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peril's Gate (Wars of Light & Shadow) is an epic journey and is a fantastic read. I am addicted to this authors work. Two brothers at war that should not have ever happened. What does it take to stay alive?
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.

[Adam · Rating 2 out of 5]

Cry mercy this was a struggle.

Wurts has a way with words. If confronted with a pile of rubbish I am sure she would be able to write a few pages describing it in exquisite detail and explaining why its appearance prompts spontaneous weeping in grown men... so her books are long and generally proceed quite slowly.

If I took exception to this I would not have reached this point in the Wars of Light and Shadow series. However Peril's Gate felt long even by her standards. And I mean really, really long. The Arithon chase sequence was too protracted and the "series recap" for the final hundred or so pages, whilst important in terms of character development, was tedious. With the scheming Koriathain and other factions largely absent in comparison to Grand Conspiracy, the tedium was continuous.

That said, I will still see the series through to its conclusion.

[David · Rating 2 out of 5]

Good lord, water sheds of weeping in this one, it's a wonder anything got done for all of the crying. Then there's the series recap in the last 200 pages, including the stuff you just got done reading in the previous 600 pages, now with bonus weeping on top of the previous weeping.

[Ruchel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book with intricate story lines, all which connect. Characters are deep and well developed and thus feel realistic. People's actions are actually explained!

[Cecilia Wacholder · Rating 2 out of 5]

Guilty pleasure. This saga has long since stopped being anything but a succession of convoluted adjectives, but I just want to know how it ends!!!!!

[jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ch 9 really tried me. It was written confusingly, but on purpose.

This author. This writing. It is so beautiful!

This series now in the top 5 of favorites!

[Ethan Manning · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peril's Gate is exceptional and does SO much with 768 pages. This book is effectively a teeth grinding chase sequence with terrible personal stakes, and then it's followed by a magic-rigged "long night of the soul". The consequences of our MC Arithon's actions are explored in excruciating detail. This dude is like public enemy number 1 for every powerful faction in the world, his every action is interpreted as demonic terrorist violence, even when he's literally stepping into the breach and helping to stop world shattering cataclysms from happening. Janny Wurts is an exceptional writer, her prose is poetic in private moments, and mythical for times when cosmic fates are wrestled into submission. I love this book.

[Wolf (Alpha) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am finally on the 6th book in this series. I love how the author keeps making the books more interesting as we continue along in the series. I kind of hope that they don't end up fighting but make peace and begin to get along. I am also kind of hoping that they end up fighting just to get it over with. I still hate Koriani and how evil she is. We still have 4 books to go, but I feel like we are about to hit the climax. 10/10 stars. Love this book.

[Alec Voin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best book in the series so far (BY FAR), my book of the year and one of the best books I have ever read. Simply an astounding entry that perfectly builds on the previous 5 books to give us a thematically and emotionally rich journey that left me laughing, crying and thinking obsessively on the implications of this book both within its own universe and our very real world. A complete masterpiece. 5 stars do not do this book justice.

[Tamilla]

I’m tired of how repetitive this is getting

[Ctgt · Rating 4 out of 5]

7/10

[P.L. Stuart · Rating 5 out of 5]

“What is a flaw but a human mistake, or an ignorance that sees without options?” 

**Please note**this review touches on events that occurred in previous books in the series – thus potential SPOILERS for the previous books.*

Every series has a crucial book, a game-changer, an installment that will turn that series a certain direction. Rest assured, "Peril's Gate", the sixth book of the series, is THAT book for the seminal "Wars of Light and Shadow" series. 

This book is an adrenaline-filled, suspenseful, chase through Athera, as Lysaer's Alliance of Light forces inexorably close in on their quarry: Arithon, so-called Master of Shadow. 

On the run from Lysear's relentless, geas-driven pursuit, with his young, stubborn, and misguided doppelganger, Fionn Areth, and his erstwhile sidekick, Dakar the Mad Prophet, Arithon must leave his companions for their own safety, and try to escape alone, obtaining assistance from his feal clan allies such as the loyal Earl Jieret, along the way. 

Wounded, feverish, delirious, pushed to the brink of his physical and emotional limits, Arithon desperately strives to find a way to avoid catastrophe, as all seems hopeless, and his capture and destruction at the hands of his half-brother Lysaer, seems inevitable.

The clansmen, sworn to Arithon, will make incredible, unthinkable sacrifices to ensure their Crown Prince has a chance for survival. Yet will all their efforts be in vain?

Meanwhile, the thoughtless plots of the Koriathain to ensnare Arithon have thrown Athera out of balance. To avoid chaos, the Fellowship Sorcerers must try to put things right. 

But now, one long lost to the Fellowship has returned. But will this return be a bane or a benefit, as Davien, a complete wildcard on the playing field of destiny, enters the mix, and commences his plots. Whose side, if any, is Davien on, and what's his true game? Or is he simply a force of sheer chaos?

Meanwhile, in his zealotry to capture and kill his rival, Lysaer has fallen into the use of dark powers. He is estranged from his wife, Ellaine, and his son and heir Kevor is finding his own path to the s'Ilessid justice imbued within him, that may be diverging from that of Lysaer's. 

Brilliant characterization is a staple of Wurts' books, and "Peril's Gate" is no different. For me, this book is where Sulfin Evend emerges in a huge way, from side note to becoming one of the most important players. He is not only a pivotal character, but one of my favourite characters in the entire "Wars of Light and Shadow". 

He bursts onto the scene, after seeming to only be a footnote in history regarding the grimward, to being one of the most central figures in Wurts' epic saga. His tale of sacrifice, duty, unflinching fealty to Lysaer, is one of the most compelling storylines of the series. 

Kevor also stands out in this book. His grace, intelligence, and natural gifts make him the perfect prince, and a much better future Prince of Avenor than his father. His shocking arc really threw me for a loop, but was ultimately very satisfying. 

"Responsible recognition hard followed, that his mount deserved better respect. Worse than that, if he indulged his whim, somebody else's reliable reputation must bear the inflexible consequence. Soon enough, one of his honour guard must spur his mount to overtake, understanding a boy's natural yearning for space, and apologetic for the duty his oath had lifesworn him to follow."

Yet, this is really the book where Arithon's character undergoes the most evolution so far in the series. By now, it is clear he's the hero of the saga, but Janny truly puts her hero through turmoil of every facet - both physical and emotional - in this book. And because of it, his nobility shines through.

"For hours, he saw faces, adrift in congealed blood: the dead cut down by his strategies at Tal Quorin, Vastmark, and the Havens. Hands plucked at him, and whispers lamented the cut threads of lost lives. The haunts shed ghost tears, and multiplied into their legions of sad widows and fatherless children. Dead sailhands came, weed clad, out of the silted deeps of Mindrel Bay. They sat at his side, weeping glittering brine and pointing bone fingers in eyeless remonstrance. Arithon addressed their silent condemnation, crying aloud for their pain. He left none of their questions unanswered, though his heart held no power to console them, nor had he the coin to purchase his own absolution. Unlike his half-brother Lysaer, he claimed no grand principle; no moral truth; no lofty reason to account for the slaughter spun by Desh-thiere's curse. His apologies rang flat, and the tides of remorse ran in scouring agony straight through him."

What happens to Arithon in the Kewar Tunnel is one of the most poignant journeys I have ever read in fiction. 

The Tunnel is Davien's lair, but also part of the tunnel is a labyrinth, designed as a ritualistic trial designed for the High Kings. 

This trial is meant to test a ruler's capacity for emotional intelligence, wisdom, self-assessment, and ultimately the ability to forgive oneself. The implication seems to be that a wise ruler must be able to accept and forgive their own flaws, in order to be able to do the same in those whom they rule over.

Critically, Arithon's ancestor, Kamridian s'Ffalenn, failed this trial, and as a result, perished.

What special qualities could Arithon possess, that Kamridian - noted to be quintessential High King - lacked, that could help him survive such a rite of passage?  

Comparing Arithon's troubles with that of his nemesis, Lyaser is no less imperiled in his own way.

We see more and more moments of self-doubt exposed from Lysaer, when he is more private moments with Sulfin, and more grappling with the justifications of his actions, than we ever saw in earlier books, where his stanch resolve in what he was doing for the greater good, overruled any possible lack of self-confidence.

Lysaer has few friends save the ever-faithful Sulfin, but many sycophants and sinister characters surrounding him who hope to use Lysaer for their own deplorable schemes. 

Lysaer, much more isolated now, having pushed most of those who truly care about him away, seems utterly lost to the Mistwraith's curse, his only true purpose the destruction of Arithon. 

Is it too late for redemption for Lysaer? And, even if redemption is offered, will he take it?

Arithon's journey here will be one of transcendence, and if he can survive it, true fulfillment. Yet it will also be acutely distressing, test his mettle to the core, and put his very sanity in jeopardy. 

I could write all day about the themes Wurts presents in her series, but the one that stood out in "Peril's Gate" was that of absolution, and self-forgiveness. Wurts presents that negative emotions such as guilt, self-pity truly are an obstruction to self-discovery and enlightenment, as evidenced by what Arithon endures in the novel.

Wurts shows us that self-realization can only be achieved once we free ourselves of the shackles of remorse and regret, and move past those feelings to accept our own frailties, imitations, errors, and embrace our potential for overcoming those obstacles, and achieving true success. 

Moreover, we should be willing and able and open to sharing our vulnerabilities with those we love and trust, for they can assist us with forgiving ourselves, and seeing the best in our own abilities. It is a very powerful message that really resonated with me. 

Wurts' stunning worldbuilding has long been apparent, from the first few passages of the series, but once the reader reaches this book, the true scope becomes more apparent. Wurts has chosen to reveal only parts of her immense universe, bit by bit, so as not to overwhelm the reader, and I support that decision. 

Now, six books in, the curtain is slowly being peeled back, some of the mysteries are coming a bit more into the light, our awareness is increased, understanding sharpened, the many layers of nuance are becoming more clear.

In particular, the Paravian mysteries are coming to the forefront, and while we are still very much in the dark when it comes to the entire picture of these fascinating creatures, and all that they signify, our viewpoint about them is deepening and intensifying, and - like the Clanborn - we are becoming more able to handle the exposure. 

The reader will slowly begin to comprehend that the delicate Compact that governs human existence on Athera is a fragile, wondrous, and very dangerous thing.

So much lies beyond the pale, that until more aspects of the world are disclosed by the author, we too as readers, like the humans in the book, are still mostly blind and dumb to the ramifications of the actions of the characters in the novel, and what is truly at stake when it comes to the Compact, as previous assumptions are destroyed, previous notions stripped, and more pieces of the big puzzle fall into place. 

This is the point in the series where so much of the foreshadowing and subtle things that Wurts put into motion in earlier books gets paid off. And the reader will begin to see how worthwhile it all was.

As with any Wurts book, the reader can expect thrilling battles, betrayals, revenge, utter ruthlessness, political machinations, and unforgettable moments of quiet, philosophizing, and reflection. This book takes things to another level, though.

Candidly, I was not prepared for the depth of losses and despair, juxtaposed with the beauty and hopefulness of many of the passages. It left me completely emotionally bereft, and it took me some time to recover from this book.

Be warned, it will likely take its toll on your psyche as well. But in the end, the trip will be completely worth it.

As per all of her books, Wurts' writing will leave you breathless. Every single word is written with purpose, and holds meaning. The exactitude, the punctiliousness with which Wurts writes, is like nothing I've ever encountered before. The sheer beauty of the prose continues to be staggering.

Luxuriant, so verdant with artistry, splendour, and magnificence, no one writes like Janny Wurts. 
I cannot help but include a sample of that astounding writing, one of my favourite passages from the book, below:

"Gloom enfolded the hammer-beamed chamber beyond. The bow windows with their breathtaking view of the bay were curtained in night-colored velvet. Nicked to gold by the flame of beeswax candles, velvet upholstery and damascened silk braid glinted from corners and lover's nooks. The furnishings were costly southern imports of Vhalzein lacquer and ebony. Carved tables and chairs wore graceful wreaths and the beardless faces of dryads. The carpets, with their twisted fringe borders, were the masterworks of skilled Morvain craftsmen. Glass and silver candlestands showed Paravian workmanship, eight centuries old, and exquisitely rare."

If you've read this far in "Wars of Light and Shadow", you are no doubt, by now, convinced that Wurts is one of the greatest fantasy authors of the past fifty years, on par with Jordan, Martin, Le Guin, Hobb, Erikson and the like. "Peril's Gate" will only serve to cement that opinion of Wurts - it certainly has for me.

"Wars of Light and Shadow" is also my favourite fantasy series of all-time, and thus far, "Peril's Gate" is my favourite book in that series, and is the true tipping point in the soon-to-be 11-book masterpiece.