Fugitive Prince

Wars of Light and Shadow #4

by Janny Wurts

The wars of light and shadow With the appalling destruction of the Vastmark warhost, recoil and grief reshapes the balance of power in the Five Kingdoms. Two half brothers, cursed by a Mistwraith to a lifelong enmity, are set into violent Lysaer, Prince of the Light. Arithon, Master of Shadow. And there are those between who will stop at nothing to fulfill secret desires and consolidate their own power. With faction set against faction, heart set against heart, and spells of high mastery engaged to cast down the ancient mysteries, the moves made by hunters and fugitive alike will remake the course of world destiny.

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

704 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published October 1, 1997

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

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Me (*hugging the book real tight*) – I’m really very sorry book for wanting to hurl you across the room.

Book (*on an indignant note*) – Am I that horrible? I know I’m not for everyone ‘cause I won’t allow you to skip or read fast, and you have to pay attention and read between the lines on my pages. Is that the reason for your temper tantrum?

Me (*remorseful and trying to appease*) – Oh no, Book! That’s not it at all! Within your pages, I just read the most wonderful story!



But you did put me through a lot!
You see, from Chapter 1, you started with such an ominous warning! So cruel and unfair! And it went on in Chapter 2. When the unfairness of it all made me so very angry! And I wanted to give my hero a very big bear hug right then and hold on real tight!!!! Because … Damn! That was so much to bear for a single person!


In your Chapter 3, those witches really gave me the creeps!!! And in Chapter 4 – I got really pissed. The gall on that man!!! Who the heck does he think he is!!!
Chapter 5 did it! It made it all official! I absolutely hate him now!!! You sure have a bat-shit crazy villain!


Your Chapters 6 and 7 could make the angels weep.


And by Chapter 8 I wasn’t able to put you down anymore!


In the beginning of Chapter 9 I was probably looking like Toothless with his lopsided grin!


And then all of a sudden BOOM! You take all hope away! And it all ends up looking so damn bleak!


Your Chapter 10 – now that was awesome!


And then in Chapter 11 - I just have to ask you: What is wrong with those people?! And where is the justice in that?!

In Chapter 12 you took me on a visit to hell, but I have to admit I enjoyed it. And then in Chapter 13 – Hell’s Fire Book!!!! That villain of yours!

He, he, he… The monster! The butcher! The pigheaded hypocrite! He just… He can’t…can he?!
Good God! Don’t tell me he just did?!


See now! You've made me cry again.


And finally, there in the end, with that Chapter 14 – you have got to be kidding me! And I need to ask you: Are you for frigging real!

I’m horrified and shocked and spitting angry! And Book, How can you blame me for wanting to hurl you across the room several times over?! I wouldn’t have felt the need to do that if you hadn’t been so awesome!!!! Can’t you see! You make me feel! You make me cry and laugh and curse and even do a happy dance at times. You are amazing!

Book (*proudly preening her pages*) – Well yes, that does make perfect sense. And in that case I do forgive you. I am pretty amazing if I may say so myself.

Me (*hugging book real tight*) - Yes you are, Book! Yes you are!



Note: there is no way to express how much I love this series as I'm by far not as good with words as so many of my other friends. So I'm letting the little dialogue and Gifs above do that for me. :)
The prose is so beautiful! The characters are amazing. The plot is so complex and astounding!
Wars of Light and Shadow is a series like no other. One that will make the reader put some effort into reading it as it doesn't allow you to skip or fast forward. It makes you read between the lines and makes you think about what is right and wrong, about what is ethic and not, about how far you would go to reach a goal and where you would draw that invisible line that, when crossed, turns a human being into a monster.
But if you decide to put in that effort, if you decide to give it a chance, you will not get to regret it. Cause this is one hell of a ride!!

Find this review and more on my book review and cover art blog The Magic Book Corner

[Mayim de Vries · Rating 4 out of 5]

“I have always liked fighting my demons up front.”

Well, there is a lot of full-frontal action here. In “Fugitive Prince” Janny Wurts entirely drops the pretence that the reader had had any illusion of choice which of the two brothers to support.

Master of Shadow, Arithon s’Ffalenn:

😇 haunted by his ruthless and self-delusional brother;
😇 is subjected to unjust, black PR across at least four kingdoms;
😇 is in love with a beautiful woman who not only is sworn into a lifelong celibate of Koriani Order but also cursed to be the reason of his downfall next time they meet hence they cannot even see each other despite being in love truly, madly, deeply (you get the meaning);
😇 creates bonds stronger than death through his fierce loyalty and a set of virtues that would please even Queen Victoria herself
😇 is mage blind and poor;
😇 swore to bring back the mythical Paravians (unicorns, centaurs, and sun children) ((just so you understand my excitement: sun children!);
😇 can sing a stone to tears.


Anyone would be a paragon by the sheer credit of such list. But it is not all. Simultaneously, his brother Lysaer:

👿 slowly being divested of the last vestiges of humanity. Surely, he thinks himself a divine being but the reader starts knowing the monstrosity in him;
👿 his prideful spite against the Fellowship Sorcerers soars to new levels;
👿 treats his wife whom he supposedly loves truly, madly, deeply (yes, yes, note the symmetry here) worse than you’d treat a sworn enemy;
👿 relishes in scheming and warmongering based on unjust alignment and justification of means;
👿 creates zealots blinded by interests and prejudice he demands it all where Arithon asks for nothing and receives more than enough instead;
👿 abuses his magical gifts and swims in opulence;
👿 believes that humanity should take over r the planet where they found a refugee;
👿 is deaf to art and beauty.

Most of these features evicted him from my good graces for an eternity already in the previous book. Curse or not, Lysaer is a small-hearted, and small-minded person. He does not even try to fight nor considers the possibility that he might be the one who errs. I call it a cowardly stupidity. Every time the story goes back to this turd of a sunboy I’m truly scared to discover what vile machination will he resort to now? Admittedly, I am somewhat sad because it means that I cannot expect character development that could redeem this anti-hero. Except for death, that is.

The contrast is so stark and dramatic that when reading you are inevitably asking yourself a question how is it possible that people fall for Lysaer’s lies at all. But the way Janny writes the sequence of events, with painstaking care for every psychological detail, renders is more than credible. It renders it actual with plenty of references that can be quickly unpacked by someone observant enough to see some worrying changes in our societies where shining virtue of justice is also very often pitched against dark dissenters. This is only one of the levels or lenses through which you can read this amazing story. There are plenty of others: environmental, transcendental, or psychological.

Things that I did not particularly like are rather constant. Predetermination still rules the game. In this instalment we have another ominous prophecy of one Fionn Areth. Again, the main protagonists are not aware of the variables that other pitch against them thus playing them like puppets. The rest, however, is as glorious as usual. And if I am coming back to this series after a long time there is only one reason for this:

Janny’s writing is so elegant that every time I read her book, I have a feeling I should have a ballgown on, hair up and full make up applied to look like a Sistine Chapel. Instead, here I am, sitting in my mandatory quarantine-time pyjamas. But enjoying myself immensely.

Also in the series:

1. The Curse of the Mistwraith ★★★★☆
2. The Ships of Merior ★★★★☆
3. Warhost of Vastmark ★★★★☆
5. Grand Conspiracy RTC
6. Peril's Gate RTC
7. Traitor's Knot RTC
8. Stormed Fortress RTC
9. Initiate's Trials RTC
10. Destiny's Conflict RTC

[seak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just when I thought it couldn't get any more gut-punching, Fugitive Prince comes along and destroys me. And that's a good thing.

Things are bad coming into Fugitive Prince. The things Prince Arithon has had to do in his attempts to reduce the amount of lives lost are soul-searing. And yet his brother, the mistwraith-controlled Prince Lysaer continues to hound him. And now, Lysaer makes things thousands of times worse. He's threatened to turn those who support Arithon, the clans, into slaves. And he follows through. The ultimate betrayal of humanity ... and the paravians. But I don't want to spoil too much.

With Arithon's "gift" (if you can call it that at this time) of compassion, he is wracked with guilt over his actions from Warhost of Vastmark - all necessary and considered to save the most amount of people, Arithon is in bad shape and yet he only gets worse throughout the course of this book.

The Mad Prophet's layers are pealed back in this book. We see new depths of compassion, hard work, and ethics coming from the drunken louse. I miss his usual hilarity he brings to the story, but his depth of character that Wurts brings out is astounding.

I can't say enough high praise for this series. The unmitigated devotion to detail and the power of each character, down to the lowly, devoted pack horse is astounding. This series is coming to a close very soon and if you have't already jumped in, it's high time!

5 out of 5 Stars (get ready to cry)

[Olivia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Since this is the fourth book in the Wars of Light and Shadow, I would rather not speak about the plot. I don't want to accidentally spoil someone who has just started the series.

This is a remarkable instalment. It also begins a new arc in this epic series. The conflict widens and the tension is almost unbearable by now. The twists, turns, and intrigues are still surprising. The plot remains compelling. The characters are wonderfully developed, growing more in each book.

The prose is beautiful and the work Janny Wurts has put into this series shows in every sentence.

Anyone who loves epic high fantasy, should definitely try The Curse of the Mistwraith.

What makes this read even better for me is the incredible group on Goodreads that is currently buddy reading it, and the fact Janny Wurts is answering all our questions in an ongoing Q&A.

[Choko · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spook Amazing!

Love the prose so much, I can read for hours, and just bask in the beauty of it... The story is epic of scope and still very intimately involved with the main characters... I realize this slow unraveling and simmering is not for all tastes, but if you like luxuriant and meticulous storytelling, this is for you. The series has to be read in order, definitely not a standalone!

[P.L. Stuart · Rating 5 out of 5]

My reading of my favourite fantasy series of all-time, "The Wars of Light and Shadow", by the incomparable Janny Wurts, continued in October 2022 with book four, "Fugitive Prince". This wondrous installment, as with the previous three books in the series, interlaces interminable spectacle, intricately crafted and incredibly plausible plots and subplots, utterly convincing and captivating characters, prodigious world-building, and seminal, redolent prose that will have readers begging for book five.

The book begins with a highly emotional and important scene involving the repudiated Koriani sorceress, Elaria. Elaria is tragically separated from the man she loves (and who loves her) - who is one of our two primary characters: Arithon s’Ffalenn. Elaria, bound to a life of chastity and service to her order, as someone versed in medical arts, becomes entwined in the destiny of a couple about to give birth. But the baby may not survive. And if it does, dark auguries swirl around the child that have stark implications for the broader plot.

That broader plot, of course, continues to be focused around said Arithon, dubbed the 'Master of Shadow', vilified by his half-brother and nemesis Lysaer s’Llessid, 'the Lord of Light', and by Lysaer's supporters. Mage-trained, but having been denied access to his mage powers, Arithon is doing everything to avoid his brother's relentless pursuit, while protecting those sworn to him from Lysaer's wrath. Thanks to Lysaer's vituperative attack of his character and deeds, Arithon has been portrayed as the devil incarnate across the realms of Athera. But in the face of this unjust misrepresentation of the sensitive, compassionate, and empathetic Arithon, blessed with a musical talent and position of a Master Bard, strives to find a path to peace, by returning the mystical Paravians who once dominated Athera, to the world.   

Meanwhile, Lysaer - the other main character of the series - struggles with multiple issues. Including the most heart-wrenching, which is his estrangement from his wife, Tailth, as their relationship turns tragically beyond repair. Not humbled by his devastating defeats in the previous books, but rather even more resolute in his convictions, Lyaser's obsessive determination to end his half-brother, all the while both are inextricably bound to the Curse of the Mistwraith, takes on a whole new level in "Fugitive Prince". As Lysaer's ingrained suspicion and mistrust of all things magic (because of Arithon, and the curse), escalates, Lysaer makes all magic, except his own, anathema, and targets the rival Fellowship Sorcerers and Korani Enchantresses as his enemies as well. 

Once again, the brilliance of Wurts' characterization, especially of the half-brother protagonists, drives the story in "Fugitive Prince". What stood out to me in this novel, compared to the previous three in the series, is how diametrically opposed the half-brothers have become, as the series have progressed. The brothers started off as mortal enemies, however had never met nor known each other. Once they did meet, after initial continued animosity, battling common cause, under duress, had brought them close enough to form some brotherly bonds of love, sadly ripped apart by the Mistwraith's malediction. Now, some time after their animosity has grown to true enmity, their true character attributes, enhanced by the curse, one brother juxtaposed against the other, is on full display.

Lysaer is clearly beginning to lean towards more villainy, at least in this juncture of the series, than in the previous installments. He is lavish in the trappings of his personal dress and court, preens over the sophistication and urbanity of his personal conduct and all that surrounds him, yet oddly obtuse when it comes to appreciating music and art - something that (notably) is integral to his half-brother's (and his opposite) character. He seems more lustful for power, more willing to resort to pure scheming and malintent to accomplish his goals. In particular, his horrific treatment of his wife Talith, whom he seemed to be completely enraptured with until she (through her own reckless and impetuous actions) was kidnapped by Arithon, stands out as abhorrent. Lysaer is becoming increasingly myopic, and even somewhat delusional and fanatical in his approach to leadership, and it sent chills down my spine, in terms of what it bodes for the future of the series.

Yet what stands out most about Lysaer in "Fugitive Prince '', is his overwhelming PRIDE, and unwillingness to see anything other than his hatred for Arithon, and his mission to take Arithon down. Lysaer's charm, majesty, and political savvy continues to help him mount a smear campaign against his half-brother, and draw allies around the Lord of Light in almost cult-like fashion. But his hubris seems to be taking over the better parts of his personality. He increasingly sees his followers as expendable foot soldiers in his personal war against Arithon, and this worrisome trend towards "by whatever means necessary" does not bode well for those who swear fealty to him.

By contrast, Arithon, living humbly, a fugitive on the run from his dogged enemy, is MOSTLY concerned for protecting those who follow him AND those who follow Lysaer, from death. Arithon's altruism, the sense of clear-minded devotion (rather than the near-cultism Lysaer inspires) of his feal subjects, his humility, all truly set him apart, and as the antithesis of his brother.

The extremely well-drawn secondary characters in Fugitive Prince have intriguing roles in the narrative. I've spoken a bit about Arithon's beloved Elaira. But the complicated, hilarious, and increasingly more loveable Dakar (who is part of a spellbinding and harrowing journey later in the book with Arithon), the single minded, iron-willed Morriel, Prime Senior of the Koriani, Princess Talith, and stewards Maenol and Jieret all have pivotal places in "Fugitive Prince'', along several other auxiliary characters. 

In terms of themes, predestination, character assassination, pride, malice, loyalty, justice, balance, love, all figure prominently in "Fugitive Prince." For me, by far, Lysaer's ability to renounce Arithon for many of the same crimes he himself has committed, is not only incredibly hypocritical, but fascinating in that his followers seem blind to the facts. The Lord of Light's ability to spin propaganda to achieve his ends is miraculous. Reading about real historical figures, or watching current, living world leaders display this same ability, is frightening, and sobering. 

As I have noted in previous reviews of Wurt's novels, the author has created (in staggeringly meticulous fashion and to an incredibly believable degree) ancient history, backstory, lore, a variety of current and defunct kingdoms, ethnicities, races (including sun-children, unicorns, and centaurs!) and cultures, and complex mythologies clans, magical guilds, complex royal genealogy, prophecy that transcends millennia, unique languages, complex magic systems and mysticism. 

Readers will learn a bit more in "Fugitive Prince" of the sacred pact involving the Fellowship Sorcerers, the ancient royal lineages of Athera (of which Arithon and Lysaer are the inheritors) and the Paravians. It has become more evident that besides restoration of balance, the return of the Paravians is also the key to ending the half-brothers' conflict.

Wurts' imagination, skill, and depth of research, particularly in all matters equine and of seamanship, is fabulous. 

I have continually praised Wurts' prose as being the best out there in terms of epic fantasy. Let me repeat, for me, no one writes like Janny Wurts. I'd sell my soul to have a fraction of her ability to spin words, maximize vocabulary, and make just reading words on a page such a complete joy. Her prose is so vivid, so lush, so beautiful. Yes, of course, the sheer density of this wondrous writing will not be for everyone. But it's what I crave in fantasy literature, and among so many fantastic authors that I've read, her prose is easily my favourite. 

"Fugitive Prince" is a beautiful slow-burn read. There are some terrific action sequences, though this book was more languorous for me than past installments in the series. That did absolutely nothing to deter my utter enjoyment of the novel. Wurts' writing is something to be savoured, and the plot moves steadily forward, seamlessly. And, as always with Wurts' books, expect a masterful conclusion. Of her many strengths as a writer, Wurts DEFINITELY knows how to write an ending, many of them explosive, extremely poignant, and unforgettable. 

In some ways, "Fugitive Prince" reads, I think, as an incredible table-setter for the next Arc in the long "Wars of Light and Shadow" Series. But this amazing book is far, far more than merely a set-up novel. Wurts cleverly draws in the reader by resolving some lingering, persistent threads that the reader was burning to have resolved in previous books, while creating tantalizing new ones that propel the series forward in momentous fashion. 

So many mysteries remain unsolved, and Wurts slowly, meticulously, begins to peel the curtain back, inch by inch, to reveal more of her stupendous world, more of the spiralling conflict between the two main characters, building gradually and inexorably towards what I have no doubts whatsoever, many books hence, will be a mind-boggling conclusion to this stunning achievement of literature. 

I realize I am still very early on in the series (of eleven books), but, of course, I am COMPLETELY invested in the "Wars of Light and Shadow", and Wurts' luxurious, dazzling prose, incredible storytelling, and marvellous characterization will keep me coming back to her writing time and time again. She is definitely my favourite author, and "Fugitive Prince" only further cements that. 

Onto "Grand Conspiracy"!

[Alissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Remarkable installment of the Wars of Light and Shadow series, this one sets the markers even further as the conflict around the half-brothers widens and ramifies in devastating chains of cause and effect, deepening and widening the range of tensions and schemes, counterploys, twists of fortune, intrigues and quests for survival.

The Koriani enchantresses, resolute in their “charge to restore civilization to lost grace” and descendants of an Order ancient beyond the boundaries of Athera, take position in a decisive manner and through manipulation and complex spells want to shape the future to achieve their goals and eliminate any threat in their path, regardless of the consequences that their drastic measures inevitably bring into the world.

Lysaer, meanwhile, shows not only his political brilliance and unparalleled charisma, but carefully lays the foundation for creating a cult around him, which answers the need for security of the frightened masses after the events in Vastmark and wins the support of town leaders ready to seize the advantage his campaign against the Sorcerers and the Clans provides. As a presence increasingly perceived as “beyond mere flesh and blood”, a savior sent to guide the people of Athera towards the prosperity of Light, he raises “the inspiration to fire men to offer themselves in sacrifice” and offers the clan bloodlines as prime target on his war, guilty of sheltering Arithon and last upholders of the Paravian law of unity, thus symbol of a burdensome past. Love and devotion now coupled with fear and blind faith, political incentives and manipulation of old feuds, for whatever interlocutor the prince seems able to find the right leverage, and strengthens his Alliance of Light: now wiser and thinking with “long-range purpose”, he begins to gather the town Factions of four kingdoms under his sunwheel banner. The maternal gift of farsight empowers a prince turned cold, able to reshape setbacks in “deliberate calculation to steer later events to his purpose”. Through the book, it emerges in all its gravitas Lysaer’s personal conviction that he must fight for Athera’s cause destroying not only his half-brother, but all that shackles the free development of the people and therefore, the Paravian rules.
I personally loved to read about his resolve, about a prince deprived of his place, poisoned by the curse of the Mistwraith, who decides to overcome any weakness and bury all his passion, to devote himself entirely to the cause of justice and mercy, even willing self-sacrifice for the Light to prevail over Shadow. Yet the seed of doubt remains, even under the spinning moral compass that guides his belief.

The Fellowship of Seven is hard pressed to handle the events. The Law of the Major Balance is painfully clear, they can help, advise and guide, but the Sorcerers cannot “use direct force to intervene without unseating the course of the world’s destiny” and without suffering retaliation, a truth they have bitterly learned in a “past outside of Athera’s historical records”. Yet the temptation lingers, as they are burdened by the pain of having to reckon with one of the princes, essential to counter the Mistwraith (whose threat is more real than ever and against which the Sorcerers have devised a star ward protection, probably piecemeal solution in the long-run), and of having asked the other one to stay alive at any cost, not only because his powers of Shadow are indispensable against the Mistwraith, but because he is pivotal to the Black Rose Prophecy and he is the last heir of a legacy they are sworn to preserve. Their adherence to the rules and their oath to uphold the compact with the Paravians are not without immediate consequences.

Arithon, now renamed Spinner of Darkness by his nemesis, perseveres in trying to escape the curse of the Mistwraith, which is growing stronger by the hour, while struggling to counter the Alliance of Light campaign of clan eradication. Mage-trained but still blind to his original powers, torn between guilt for ruining “uncounted others” and the need to keep his oath to the Sorcerers, he reluctantly keeps company with Dakar and Caolle. Through a “volatile mix of unlawful conniving and a devilish bent for playing unconscionable stakes”, he throws himself body and soul in plans to survive and save his allies, but the forces closing on him show clever and deadly intent, and unexpected strategies. A little reprieve from enemies and inner insanity is the music, and his gifts as Masterbard will soon prove to be a force to safeguard not only the difficult legacy of two royal bloodlines’ inheritance, but the very people who freely share loyalty and respect with the Teir’s’Ffalenn. As the story unfolds, his suffering borders to despair and there is only so much one can sustain on his own before succumbing...

This book offers deepening knowledge about the origins of the Fellowship and the Koriani and especially about the rules of balance that govern the world, the Fellowship’s sworn compact with the Paravians and the charter law signed by the High Kings when humanity had come seeking refuge on Athera. The reasons behind the blessed races’ disappearance also start to unveil themselves. Another intriguing lore thread, after Asandir’s revelations in The Ships of Merior, evolves around the great drakes of the Second Era and the war-stricken past of the Sorcerers. Enough to whet the appetite, but I am looking forward to continuing with Grand Conspiracy to understand how these elements will weigh in the balance of the tale (also at this point, reading the short stories Reins of Destiny and The Sundering Star is a bonus).

I liked this part of the series because it follows the princes and other characters, too, particularly Lirenda, Caolle and Mearn play a vital role in the evolution of the situation, each spurred by different motivations and faction backgrounds, but all guided by their personal feelings and free will, for the good or to the detriment of their own causes. Along with them, the complex character of Dakar provides moments of reflection and fun, as well as one cannot fail to notice the personal story of Morriel, Prime Senior of the Koriani and last keeper of the knowledge of her Order, now nearing the end of her prolonged lifespan. Princess Talith, pleasure and pain of Prince Lysaer; Maenol and Jieret, the young stewards of Tysan’s and Rathain’s kingdoms, forced to lead their people against the blind fury of the Alliance of Light. Eldir, the High King of Halvish, neutral in the conflict but enforcing the Paravian charter law, whose temperance will be sorely tested; Fiark and Feylind, now adults and resolved to play a part in the bigger scheme. Elaria, the ostracized Koriani, sole possessor of a deep and pure bond with Arithon, currently entangled in the web of another tragic prophecy concerning the fate of a green-eyed child... And, of course, the two princes, both cursed, but while Lysaer s’Llessid "became driven to self-sacrifice for morality, ennobling his losses through a public campaign of justification, Arithon s'Ffallenn more quietly bled in compassion until his solitary resilience ran dry". Amid this calm chaos, for fugitive Arithon there seems to be only one reprieve, to find the Paravians, mysteriously disappeared in the wake of the Mistwraith five hundred years before.

Again, another round of applause for Janny Wurts, who not only delivers great entertainment and weaves a story of relentless complexity with skilled narrative power, but also manages to balance all the subplots with suave control, and keeps offering well-rounded, developing characters, all set in an intriguing and multilayered universe. Just considering the first four books, the monumental work of planning in this series and the intense study and research that permeates even the smallest detail clearly shows, and enchants. I particularly relished the many insights about human nature and about the strength of the internal feelings and external loyalties that motivates the characters to live and act, fail and succeed: the ambition of Lirenda, the pride of Lysaer, the sensitivity of Arithon, the love of Talith, the hatred fostered by ignorance of the common people, the greed of the trade guilds, the need to feel protected of the masses. Reflection on politics, religion, the core beliefs of a human being, how not to empathize?

Fugitive Prince is certainly considerable, like The Curse of the Mistwraith, a stage setter of the story: it begins with a shocking scene, soon after the first part recalls the past events through clever interactions of the various characters in order to show the present situation from new points of view, then prepares and widens the stage, adding new elements and defining the various situations, just to pick up speed and peak in an intense denouement, as usual self-contained but which begs for the next book. I’ve duly obliged.

[Rosemary Standeven · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is sandwiched between two very short scenes with Elaira. The relevance of these scenes must wait for full explanation, though – as the series is 11 books long, and this is only book 4, some conclusions can perhaps be drawn.
Lysaer has proclaimed that henceforth all captured clansmen will be enslaved, and forced to work his warships. Slavery is against the Fellowship rules, and they summon him to answer for his crimes. He is met by the Fellowship plus an Adept.

Sethvir to Lysaer
“The fears you smooth over in the trappings of moral platitudes will counterbalance nothing. Neither can they build. You will find the just fervor you raise can save no one. In the end, your own followers will dictate your actions. Their will shall rule yours with a needy finality that you will be powerless to gainsay. We can offer no help for you then.”
Traithe to Lysaer
“You are gifted to seek justice. Don’t make that a weapon for righteousness. The misery you seed in your quest to kill Arithon might live on long past your death. Claim your cause as divine, and you found a tradition that will not be lightly shaken.”
“The adept swept to her feet, relentless. “Unstop your ears and listen, scion of s’Ilessid. Persist on your present path, and you shall gain your desires.” As Lysaer’s blue eyes widened, she pressed him, “Oh yes. Your half brother shall walk in the shadow you create. But not before you stand blackened enough to raise despair of a force sufficient to break him. Every mortal enclave on this continent shall fall as victim to your cause. Your memory shall be sealed in the archives by violence, for nothing in creation can stand or flourish in the absence of love. Let us see, in the hour that Arithon’s blood stains your hands, whether conviction for your fellowman or overweening pride is your master.””

Lysaer refuses to listen to them, claiming that his battle is righteous, and Arithon is evil and must be stopped by any means.
Although the Koriani sisterhood was created to help humanity, over the centuries, it has festered in impotence bereft of their main tool. Now, once more with the Waystone returned, Moriel, fearing her death before her legacy and the future of the sisterhood are assured, uses it to track and set a trap for Arithon. She seeks power over the Fellowship and over the earth – at any cost.
This is another area in which the series differs from many other fantasy worlds. The magic of the women relies on mastery over their tools, the crystals, forcing them to obey. Hence, the crystals becoming twisted and malevolent. The Fellowship (male) work with their tools, always asking permission before any conjury is attempted – be that the permission of a stone or of a person. This is in stark contrast to my other favourite series, ‘The Wheel of Time’, where female magic is accessed through submission, and male through wrenching control of the source.
In this book we discover more about the history of the world, and why the clan bloodlines are so important. The Dragons appealed to the Fellowship, who needed to atone for the release of weapons of mass destruction elsewhere in the universe, to Athera to control the Drakes and save the Paravians. Then, the Paravians allowed human refugees to settle on the world, providing they kept the compact – no knowledge from outside Athera, no building on Paravian lands and care for the environment, no slavery etc. Most humans could not stand the glory of the Paravians without going mad. Select lines of humans – the clansmen/aristocrats – could interact with the Paravians. Their duty therefore was to keep their bloodlines pure and to ensure the rules of the compact were adhered to. Over the five centuries since the Paravians disappeared, the clansmen have never forgotten their duty, though the townsfolk see only the imposition of ‘senseless’ rules. Thus, Mearn s’Brydion was not permitted to give Talith a child, however much he desired her and sympathised with her plight. Maybe this can be seen as a struggle between unbridled capitalism, and an ecologically aware world of communities working for the common good.
Freedom of speech is also dealt with, when Arithon, as master bard, and Dakar have to rescue the bard, Felirin, from burning for singing the ballad of Tal Quorin.

"Through the riveted focus cauterized by his art, Arithon s’Ffalenn addressed the robed man on the dais. “What is a song, or a word but a thought given wing? A man should not burn for expression of ideas. The sentence passed here offers frightening precedents. Or has forthright speech become one and the same thing, to be tried as a deed that caused harm? Do we allow you to end a man’s life in a fire because you disagree with his music?”"

Once again, there is much in the book that makes you reflect on our own world, and our own belief systems. One may be anti-monarchist – but what if …? Is immigration a bane or a blessing? Do asylum seekers have the right to decide the rules by which they live? Now? Ever? What about when situations change? A banquet for thought.

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

After rereading this book recently, I'm revising my rating to 5 stars. It does slow down from the pace of the first three, but now that I have the full story of the 3rd Arc, I have to give it 5 stars as every element in this book is essential to the completion of the whole story.

4.5 stars. I'm not really happy with any of my reviews of this series, so I'm putting this in every one: Mistwraith is an incredibly compelling, action filled, gut wrenching, heart stopping adventure with one of the most incredible love stories I've read in a long time.

As in the previous books, the plot is intricate and compelling. The battle continues with Lysaer wanting to wage war and Arithon fleeing to try and avoid more killing, which tears him to pieces. Each book adds more layers to the overall picture of the world of Athera, the ancient Paravians who have disappeared, the mystery of where they went and why humans are on this world at all. It reminds me of one of those pictures with many layers of sheer paper with the objects colored in that keep building complexity upon complexity until the image is very rich and powerful.

An intense and emotional scene consists of the sorcerers confronting Lysaer and giving him alternate choices of action.

One of the important things that emerges more completely in this book is that since their empathic connection while healing the fisherman in Merior, Elaira and Arithon are able to maintain an empathic connection with one another and are able to be aware of how the other one is feeling by reaching out empathetically. The love that develops in this way is quite powerful, even though they are not able to be together because of Elaira's oath to the Koriani for celibacy and obedience.

I only gave this one four and a half stars originally because it did not seem quite as compelling as the previous three in that the action sequences are spinning what is to emerge in later books, which I found as I continued to read.

ETA: 1/25/13 On this reread I see so many layers that were invisible before. In my haste to see what happened next, I missed a lot. Also my hatred for Lysaer was carved into stone in this book. I can scarcely see how he can possibly be redeemed. His arrogance has no bounds, even though I can see his attitudes and actions are so twisted by the curse, it also seems as though the traits of his personality lend themselves to be twisted.

[Booksblabbering || Cait❣️ · Rating 2 out of 5]

Prince Lysaer owns a terrifying power of conviction. Thirty thousand lives gone and wasted in Vastmark has left his dedication unshaken. Nor would his adherents awaken and see sense, tied to his need as they were through inherited blinders of prejudice. He presses the clans into slavery as Aethion struggles against the Deish-thiere’s curse, over-powering his compulsion of compassion at times.

“My hands are more empty than a beggar’s. I have nothing to give back but the bankrupt husk of my sorrow.”

I found the start extremely slow - rehashing and repetitive. The plot only really got started at 30%, and at a book four with books of this impressive length, that is off-putting.

I have to admit to questioning dnf’ing. When the story gets going and the plots moves and the characters develop, it is very engaging. BUT every single book has the same structure of brother vs brother, pride vs compassion, vindication vs subterfuge.

There is a three year time jump in this book which propels the pace.

We get more lore about the Koriani feud with the Fellowship of Seven, as well as their respective historic roles and the limitations of their powers and meddling.
Lirenda is prideful and flawed, too desperately consumed by desire to rule. Temptation runs rampant and she feels threatens by the Master of Shadow.

Lysaer just becomes more and more despicable, so I’m holding out hope for an epic character redemption arc that I believe Wurts can pull off beautifully, but this is just my guess/hope.

Ultimately, I am let down by this one for the very boring, rehashing start.

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[Lezlie The Nerdy Narrative · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading the prequel novella and the first 3 books in this series, once I picked up FUGITIVE PRINCE by Janny Wurts, it was like taking that first bite of the most decadent chocolate in the world.

I am so invested in this world, its people and characters - that I feel physical pain at times. I still marvel at the intelligence and battle of wits between the different factions, groups and individuals. While I'm fully aware of the main gist of the plot - it's quite simple, actually - its execution is complex and masterful.

Janny Wurts is a living legend and if you've not experienced her writing, then you're missing out on the absolute best of fantasy.

[Bill · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am less than half way through The War of Light and Shadow by Janny Wurts, have not reviewed the prior books, but feel a need to say something on finishing Fugitive Prince

The War of Light and Shadow has been the second best epic fantasy I have ever read. (For more on what I mean by that, see Spider Robinson's introduction to The Middle of Nowhere by David Gerrold.)

Fugitive Prince is the 3rd or 4th book in this series depending on whether you are reading hardcovers or paperbacks. I strongly recommend you get the OOP hardcovers, because you will want to read this series multiple times. I would also get an eBook edition to help pay Janny for her creative effort and so that you can search the text for reminders which you will need.

I can think of many adjectives to apply to the series but the one's foremost in my mind are musical, complex and gray—also fun. The prose often reads symphonically and creates moods and emotion in the reader, like favorite music. The world and character and plot building are multilayered and complex. I'd compare it to Dune in this sense in genre literature or (I really don't want to say this as it has become cliché) to LOTR which has taken me over 26 reads to become comfortable with all of Middle Earth. I hope I have enough life left to become as comfortable with WoLaS. And by gray, I mean not black and white, not dualistic. My favorite description of this sense was said by Delenn in Babylon 5, ""I am Grey. I stand between the candle and the star. We are Grey. We stand between the darkness and the light."

The really fun part of reading this series, has been discussing the books, while reading with other readers and with the author, one I long to be a real-world friend. I have never experienced this before. Thanks to Goodreads.

If nothing else, I hope my words will encourage others to read this incomparable epic fantasy.

[Jon · Rating 4 out of 5]

The opening installment for the third arc of the Wars of Light and Shadow satisfied through multilayer revelations yet drove my yearning for more to even greater heights of tantalization. I felt less connected to the characters this time around, but fully entrenched and sated with the world building discoveries - the history, the magic, the conflicts across the ages. I thrive on the whisper of near-forgotten legends and thrill to the song of mystical cosmic resonance.

In anticipation for an in-depth online discussion, I took numerous notes via my status updates comments, including spoilers, so I've done my due diligence and warned you away from those notes if you are a first time reader. If you need a refresher on plot points for a discussion, I hope you find benefit from those same copious comments.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

The plots are a-thickening! Especially Morriel's. She really is like a spider in a web!

One thing in particular really stood out to me during my second reading of this: Lysaer knew Talith was pregnant.
So when he was told that she basically killed herself in childless despair, he never considered that she was murdered. I guess that must be the Curse in action, via self-delusion? Either that, or he's just a vain, hypocritical, callous, shallow, jacka--. The latter has my vote!

[Stefan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fugitive Prince is the fourth novel in THE WARS OF LIGHT AND SHADOW by Janny Wurts, but because of the series' unique structure, it's actually the start of a brand new "arc" inside the overall story: book 1 comprises the first arc, books 2 and 3 together are the second arc, and the third arc consists of books 4 through 8 (the first of which is Fugitive Prince). Looking forward, the forthcoming 9th novel, Initiate's Trial, will be the first of 2 books in the 4th arc, and the 11th and final novel will also be the final arc.

If you're keeping track, all of this means that the series' 5 arcs have a nicely symmetrical 1-2-5-2-1 structure, and also that, just in case you're not familiar with this truly excellent series yet, you still have the amazing opportunity to read the first 3 arcs, which are recently all in print again, before Janny Wurts' next novel hits the shelves.

Just one of the wonderful aspects of THE WARS OF LIGHT AND SHADOW is that Janny Wurts always makes it easy to get back into the story, even if it's been a while since you've read the last novel. She does this by recapping the events from previous novels, not in a "The story so far" section at the front of the book, but much more elegantly, by including those events into the narrative, often from a different perspective, so your understanding of the series deepens at the same time. (However, if your memory is as bad as mine, and you prefer a more traditional chronological recap, this can be found in a later novel, and there's also a book by book time line available on the author's excellent website).

Fugitive Prince picks up close to the end of Warhost of Vastmark, and for fear of spoiling even the slightest bit of enjoyment for new readers, this review won't cover much in the way of plot summary. Suffice it to say that the conflict between the the half-brothers Arithon and Lysaer continues unabated. The "Alliance of Light" mentioned in the title of this third arc refers to Lysaer's coalition of mostly townborn loyalists, built around a religion and a true cult of personality centered on him, with the goal of ridding the world of Athera of both his half-brother and the last remnants of the clan-born.

Many familiar characters from earlier novels return, and several new and fascinating ones are introduced. This being the start of a new arc, the plot logically includes a bit more set-up than the previous 3 novels did, making the first half of this novel probably the weakest section of the series so far — which isn't saying much, as it still sticks head and shoulders above almost everything else in the genre. However, in the style I've more or less come to expect by now, the midway point of the novel presents a tipping point, leading to a truly excellent, hard-to-put-down second half and an exciting finale that will leave you eager to get to the next book in the series.

Janny Wurts also continues to reveal secrets and layers in THE WARS OF LIGHT AND SHADOW's improbably complex fantasy universe, this time maybe not of the truly mind-bending kind (although, that grimward scene...) but still enough to keep you on your toes — especially some casually mentioned tidbits about the Koriani enchantresses that'll add a whole new perspective to your understanding of this series. Every book in THE WARS OF LIGHT AND SHADOW will have you reconsider the previous ones in an entirely new light.

One aspect of Fugitive Prince — and the entire series — that bears emphasizing is its unique descriptions of magic. In fantasy, magic is sometimes portrayed as an almost scientifically rational process complete with systems and charts (a la Brandon Sanderson), or, at the other extreme of the scale, as unexplained and vaguely described hand-waving. To be fair, Arithon's powers sometimes lean towards the second of those options, but in Fugitive Prince you'll find a description of an elaborate spell construct by Morriel Prime that hits the perfect middle ground between the two: it's so carefully described and (for want of a better word) rational that you can practically see it in front of you, but at the same time it manages to keep the true mystery and wonder of its nature. It's simply one of the most memorable descriptions of magic I've ever encountered in fantasy. Then again, Janny Wurts' prose almost constantly hits that same level, with some of the most carefully worded and nuanced writing you'll find in the genre. While her style can be demanding on the reader, it's equally rewarding if you're willing to adjust to a level of detail and depth that's unparalleled in fantasy.

Fugitive Prince is another excellent installment in one of the best fantasy series out there. If you're not on board yet, seriously — go find a copy of The Curse of the Mistwraith now!

This review was also published on the Fantasy Literature website (where I'm a reviewer/editor). Come check us out: www.fantasyliterature.com.

[Blaise · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

We have reached Arc III of The Wars of Light and Shadow series also know as the Alliance of Light Quintet. After the surprising and painful conclusion to Warhost of Vastmark, I found myself wondering what was in store for me with the next installment. What I didn’t expect was for this series to take a very dark turn not only with the choices and hardships of our main characters but the threads and plotlines starting to connect in unforeseen ways. Janny is not one to hold your hand throughout this journey but to lead you down a path and you may not like where you end up. This is just the tipping point for what this series is starting to show me and I couldn’t think of a more talented author to show me the way. This will be a spoiler free review but I will be touching on certain events in the previous novels. Please don’t continue reading if you don’t want to be spoiled.

After his defeat at Vastmark, Lysaer has formed an Alliance of Light among several kingdoms as he seeks his revenge on his half-brother. Sworn to rid the world of Arithon’s influence of shadow, Lysaer is approached by the Koriani enchantresses with the idea of joining forces. The Morriel Prime is at a loss following her failed assassination attempt of the shadow prince. The Prime seeks wisdom in her crystal for the next steps, but she knows her time is almost up and she must prepare a successor for her goals to be fulfilled. Arithon along with the Mad Prophet are on the hunt for the Paravians or at least remnants of the Paravians from the past. His journey will bring him all across Athera and beyond but his future is written in darkness and blood with no room for error. War will come again but with much higher stakes.

These reviews will be getting harder and harder the further I progress in the series so forgive me if I don’t go into great details from this point forward. Fugitive Prince starts about six months following the end of Warhost, but sometime later Janny will throw in a three year time jump. This is just the first in a long list of surprises Janny has up her sleeve. We get to see a lot more of Jieret since we first met him at the age of twelve in book 1. Bloodsworn to Arithon and with augur abilities of his bloodline, Jieret has quickly become a favorite of mine both for his devotion and loyalty. As I made my way through the story, Janny hit me with a gut punch of a chapter that still gets to me even as I’m writing this review. It was unexpected, tragic, heartbreaking, and I know will have huge implications for what is to come. Very few authors bring out the type of reaction in me and they are all on my top authors list. Guess who just joined the club!

Nothing in this series can be described as predictable, uninspiring, or unoriginal in all factions. We have a multi-layered, complex, and character driven novel with the beautiful writing of someone who I consider to be a poet. While at the same time destroying me with blow after blow of emotional turmoil. Although the first book was published in 1993, this is a series for the modern fantasy reader. It has the right blend of classical influences while being highly original and unique in a genre that is ever evolving. Janny is a pillar of the fantasy community and she will never apologize for being the hardnose and inspirational writer she has become. This series has flown under the radar for too long, but I will work my tale off to change that perspective in the fantasy community if it is the last thing I do. Don’t sleep on this series for one more moment. Read it!

Cheers!

[Degenerate Chemist · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 4 re-read of wolas series.

"Fugitive Prince" was my absolute favorite novel in this series and I was a bit worried as to how it would hold up so many years after my last reading.

While this book is flawed, it feels far more polished than the original three novels. The dialogue is less awkward, the world building is integrated into the storytelling- no boring 15 page asides on how the magic macguffin was forged a billion years ago by singing unicorns, and the characterization feels more solid in this book than it did earlier in the series.

I would go as far as to say that if you want to read wolas start with this novel. There will be some details and references you will miss if you start here, but it won't seriously hamper your understanding of what is going on in this series. The opening scene in Lysaers council chamber is a good enough introduction to who's who and how this world functions. And it makes more of an impact on the reader than hundreds of pages of hiking in the fog.

In this novel, Lysaer Christ superstar decides to reintroduce society to institutionalized slavery. At this point Lysaer is every mediocre white boy who has ever walked into my lab and tried to give me chemistry lessons. He knows what's best for everyone and if you disagree, you are the problem.

Arithon finally does something useful and helps those who are being threatened with slavery. He is still a bit of a prick in this novel, but he is growing up a little bit and accepting his responsibility to his people. This novel also does a much better job of showing Arithon's issues with ptsd, mental illness and the stress of living with the Mistwraith's curse.

The stakes in this novel are high as Arithon is literally working to prevent genocide and Lysaer is gathering religious zealots to his cause.

Ultimately this book held up fairly well after all this time. I would recommend it for fans of epic fantasy and if you do have an interest in wolas, start with this novel. If you like it maybe go back and give the first three books a try.

[This Is Not The Michael You're Looking For · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fourth book in the (to be eleven book) series, and first book of the middle five book arc subtitled "The Alliance of Light", Fugitive Prince is more about setup than reward. In many ways it doesn't offer anything new: Arithon plans some scheme to save the lives of those who look up to him while trying to avoid active conflict, while Lysaer tries to rally the world behind him to eliminate the evil of his brother. Arithon suffers greatly due to his overzealous compassion whenever anything goes wrong, and Lysaer takes every and any possible challenge to the ideas he holds to be true as an attempt at subtle manipulation by some outside agent to turn him from his true duty. If this sounds rather generic that's because it's been the theme of the last two books. There may be some light at the end of the tunnel. By the end of this book, while it is clear that Lysaer has turned into an ego-maniacal caricature who has convinced himself of his own divine right to do what he will "for the good of all", there are some hints that just maybe Arithon has turned the corner. I'm confidant he'll still be wallowing in self-pity throughout the next book(s), but maybe it won't be quite as crippling.

With respect to the greater plot, we get to see the Koriani undone by their own machinations. They attempt to ally with Lysaer against Arithon, something which may come back to haunt them in future volumes (I still don't understand why they try to side with Lysaer at all...based on their stated goals and broad knowledge, Lysaer has always obviously been the bigger threat to their aims). There's not a lot in the way of character development for the main characters in this book, although a number of minor new characters are introduced (pretty much all allies of Lysaer) who appear will fill important roles in the future.

Overall, the series feels a little redundant at this point, as if the characters are treading water while the plot revolves around them. I've previously read up through the next two books, but I simply don't recall if this trend continues or whether it starts to gain real momentum.

[Amelia · Rating 4 out of 5]

The fourth book in the Wars of Light and Shadow. Also the first book in the Alliance of Light, which is Arc III.

Another ride with Arithon and Lysaer as they battle each other and the curse that has pitted them against each other.

In this volume Arithon continues to try to carry out his plan to save the clans from extermination. His plan of stealing the new ships goes awry when the Koriani intervene and create a trap for him as well as an alliance with Lysaer. Arithon has to run in order to try and escape this trap.

By this time in the series, we know the two princes, or at least we think we do. I feel for their plights. There are so many appicable issues in these books that can make the reader question our own ideas of our life. This is not an easy read by any means. The ideas are complex and the plot is very complex. There is a lot going on in the book that seems to be passing tidbits, but end up having a much greater significance. Janny Wurts style is very educated. She uses very precise language that really deepens the reading experience. One must get used to the style and take time to appreciate each little nuance.

I started an easier book and now that style seems much more simplistic and forthwright than it may have otherwise.

Readers beware: if you've made it this far, be prepared be captured for a while as you'll want to know the whole story.

I recommend this book for mature readers who are ready to tackle an expansive series, with complex charaters, a great world and very thought provoking ideas.

[arwen · Rating 5 out of 5]

*falls to my knees, wailing* the layers!!! the depths!!! the nets!!! the intrigue!!!
this installment swept me off my feet and then hurled me off a cliff

[Jean Hontz · Rating 5 out of 5]

The War of Light and Shadow Book 4.

Epic fantasy with a wide cast of characters in a sprawling landscape filled with pitfalls and betrayals and hopeless plights. Two half-brothers, both poisoned by their encounter with the Mistwraith, their gifts twisted and turned to destruction of everything they care about. Arithon, trained as a mage, at least knows what’s happening and has training enough to fight against it. Lysaer has no such protection and is totally under the Mistwraith’s spell.

By book 4, the spell has nearly consumed Lysaer. His natural sense of justice is so twisted he no longer seems himself, and is consumed with destroying Arithon.

Arithon is so harried and pursued across the world, he has no safe haven. All his allies are in deadly danger and under constant pressure from Lysaer armies of nearly fanatical believers. Only his natural bent toward brilliant tactics and subtle planning have given him any hope at all of surviving and of keeping his allies alive. He hopes to find a refuge for his people, where he can protect them from the Alliance of Light.

Intense emotions, depths of character, twisty plots and seemingly hopeless odds. All combine to make this book, as were the rest, compelling.

[David Cornelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my fourth or fifth time through Fugitive Prince and it still stands as an excellent episode in the series.

The machinations of the Koriani and Morriel Prime are the central focus of the book while Lysear moves Athera to a religious bend of the Mistwraith's curse.

The stand out scenes of this book are Dakar's unswerving and at the same time reluctant friendship to Arithon. But the pivotal moment is the expression of friendship and love shown in later chapters between Jeiret and Arithon.

I of know other author that writes about friendship, loyalty, love, grace, hardship, service, and sacrifice as Janny does.

I am a better person for having read these books and Fugitive Prince is yet another example of life lessons we should all adhere to.

[Albé Theunissen · Rating 2 out of 5]

Same problem as the first book. Pages and pages of detailed descriptions of things that have no relevance to the story. Book 2 and 3 slightly improved, but this book is probably (and hopefully!) the worst in the series so far. JUST GET TO THE POINT PLEASE!

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

interesting note... Janny Wurts also painted the cover art for this book and for Ships of Merior...

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lo so che Janny sta cercando di farmi provare pietà anche per Lysaer, ma non posso, non riesco a perdonargli quello che ha fatto a Talith.

[John Marsh · Rating 4 out of 5]

(A reminder) Need to read the first three volumes of Wars of Light and Shadow series to really get the background. In one terrible hour the War Host in Vastmark falls to the forces of Shadow. A scorched-earth campaign of burnings sweeps the land to burn out the practice of sorcery. This is where the new series starts from. As well the Shadow Master is important to the Fellowship of Sorcerer's future affairs -and thus the key to their return to power.


The Koriani enchantresses, resolute in their “charge to restore civilization to lost grace” and descendants of an Order ancient beyond the boundaries of Athera, take position in a decisive manner and through manipulation and complex spells want to shape the future to achieve their goals and eliminate any threat in their path, regardless of the consequences that their drastic measures inevitably bring into the world. The complex spells designed to force the master of the shadow into their hands fails. Lirenda first senior shows correctly Koriani helping and healing hand to Caolle who manages to overpower both Lirenda and healer destroying the healer's cystal via sea water and retreiving Lirenda cystal which he in turns sends to the shadow master. He sings to the cystal and alters aspects then returns the cystal to the order. This happens at the end of this volume.

Lysaer, meanwhile, shows not only his political brilliance and unparalleled charisma, but carefully lays the foundation for creating a cult around him, which answers the need for security of the frightened masses after the events in Vastmark and wins the support of town leaders ready to seize the advantage to his campaign against the Sorcerers and the Clans provideswith inciting the people towards genocide of the clanmen. Captured men are put into galleys and oarmen with a short expented life span. The tide turns and some ships are captured by the clansmen and slves freed. As a presence increasingly perceived as “beyond mere flesh and blood”, a savior sent to guide the people of Athera towards the prosperity of Light, he raises “the inspiration to fire men to offer themselves in sacrifice” and offers the clan bloodlines as prime target on his war, guilty of sheltering Arithon and last upholders of the Paravian law of unity, thus symbol of a burdensome past. Love and devotion now coupled with fear and blind faith, political incentives and manipulation of old feuds, for whatever interlocutor the prince seems able to find the right leverage, and strengthens his Alliance of Light: now wiser and thinking with “long-range purpose”, he begins to gather the town Factions of four kingdoms under his sunwheel banner. The maternal gift of farsight empowers a prince turned cold, able to reshape setbacks in “deliberate calculation to steer later events to his purpose”. Through the book, it emerges in all its gravitas Lysaer’s personal conviction that he must fight for Athera’s cause destroying not only his half-brother, but all that shackles the free development of the people and therefore, the Paravian rules.
I personally loved to read about his resolve, about a prince deprived of his place, poisoned by the curse of the Mistwraith, who decides to overcome any weakness and bury all his passion, to devote himself entirely to the cause of justice and mercy, even willing self-sacrifice for the Light to prevail over Shadow. Yet the seed of doubt remains, even under the spinning moral compass that guides his belief.

The Fellowship of Seven is hard pressed to handle the events. The Law of the Major Balance is painfully clear, they can help, advise and guide, but the Sorcerers cannot “use direct force to intervene without unseating the course of the world’s destiny” and without suffering retaliation, a truth they have bitterly learned in a “past outside of Athera’s historical records”. Yet the temptation lingers, as they are burdened by the pain of having to reckon with one of the princes, essential to counter the Mistwraith (whose threat is more real than ever and against which the Sorcerers have devised a star ward protection, probably piecemeal solution in the long-run), and of having asked the other one to stay alive at any cost, not only because his powers of Shadow are indispensable against the Mistwraith, but because he is pivotal to the Black Rose Prophecy and he is the last heir of a legacy they are sworn to preserve. Their adherence to the rules and their oath to uphold the compact with the Paravians are not without immediate consequences.

Arithon, now renamed Spinner of Darkness by his nemesis, perseveres in trying to escape the curse of the Mistwraith, which is growing stronger by the hour, while struggling to counter the Alliance of Light campaign of clan eradication. Mage-trained but still blind to his original powers, torn between guilt for ruining “uncounted others” and the need to keep his oath to the Sorcerers, he reluctantly keeps company with Dakar and Caolle. Through a “volatile mix of unlawful conniving and a devilish bent for playing unconscionable stakes”, he throws himself body and soul in plans to survive and save his allies, but the forces closing on him show clever and deadly intent, and unexpected strategies. A little reprieve from enemies and inner insanity is the music, and his gifts as Masterbard will soon prove to be a force to safeguard not only the difficult legacy of two royal bloodlines’ inheritance, but the very people who freely share loyalty and respect with the Teir’s’Ffalenn. As the story unfolds, his suffering borders to despair and there is only so much one can sustain on his own before succumbing...

This book offers deepening knowledge about the origins of the Fellowship and the Koriani and especially about the rules of balance that govern the world, the Fellowship’s sworn compact with the Paravians and the charter law signed by the High Kings when humanity had come seeking refuge on Athera. The reasons behind the blessed races’ disappearance also start to unveil themselves. Another intriguing lore thread, after Asandir’s revelations in The Ships of Merior, evolves around the great drakes of the Second Era and the war-stricken past of the Sorcerers. Enough to whet the appetite, but I am looking forward to continuing with Grand Conspiracy to understand how these elements will weigh in the balance of the tale (also at this point, reading the short stories Reins of Destiny and The Sundering Star is a bonus).

I liked this part of the series because it follows the princes and other characters, too, particularly Lirenda, Caolle and Mearn play a vital role in the evolution of the situation, each spurred by different motivations and faction backgrounds, but all guided by their personal feelings and free will, for the good or to the detriment of their own causes. Along with them, the complex character of Dakar provides moments of reflection and fun, as well as one cannot fail to notice the personal story of Morriel, Prime Senior of the Koriani and last keeper of the knowledge of her Order, now nearing the end of her prolonged lifespan. Princess Talith, pleasure and pain of Prince Lysaer; Maenol and Jieret, the young stewards of Tysan’s and Rathain’s kingdoms, forced to lead their people against the blind fury of the Alliance of Light. Eldir, the High King of Halvish, neutral in the conflict but enforcing the Paravian charter law, whose temperance will be sorely tested; Fiark and Feylind, now adults and resolved to play a part in the bigger scheme. Elaria, the ostracized Koriani, sole possessor of a deep and pure bond with Arithon, currently entangled in the web of another tragic prophecy concerning the fate of a green-eyed child... And, of course, the two princes, both cursed, but while Lysaer s’Llessid "became driven to self-sacrifice for morality, ennobling his losses through a public campaign of justification, Arithon s'Ffallenn more quietly bled in compassion until his solitary resilience ran dry". Amid this calm chaos, for fugitive Arithon there seems to be only one reprieve, to find the Paravians, mysteriously disappeared in the wake of the Mistwraith five hundred years before.

Again, another round of applause for Janny Wurts, who not only delivers great entertainment and weaves a story of relentless complexity with skilled narrative power, but also manages to balance all the subplots with suave control, and keeps offering well-rounded, developing characters, all set in an intriguing and multilayered universe. Just considering the first four books, the monumental work of planning in this series and the intense study and research that permeates even the smallest detail clearly shows, and enchants. I particularly relished the many insights about human nature and about the strength of the internal feelings and external loyalties that motivates the characters to live and act, fail and succeed: the ambition of Lirenda, the pride of Lysaer, the sensitivity of Arithon, the love of Talith, the hatred fostered by ignorance of the common people, the greed of the trade guilds, the need to feel protected of the masses. Reflection on politics, religion, the core beliefs of a human being, how not to empathize?

Fugitive Prince is certainly considerable, like The Curse of the Mistwraith, a stage setter of the story: it begins with a shocking scene, soon after the first part recalls the past events through clever interactions of the various characters in order to show the present situation from new points of view, then prepares and widens the stage, adding new elements and defining the various situations, just to pick up speed and peak in an intense denouement, as usual self-contained but which begs for the next book. I’ve duly obliged. (less)

[Miggins (Hobbit Hole Books) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one is a meditative read that sets the stage for the entire proceeding arc of the Wars of Light and Shadow series. However this does not mean the pace is slow, in fact the pace is consistent and ramping up each time we trundle further along.

With the closure of arc two in Warhosts, and all the devastating consequences forthcoming from that, we see a broken and bruised Arithon, exiling himself to prevent further bloodshed and seek hope in the form of the remaining Atheran Paravians.

Meanwhile, the Koriani are drawn into centre stage, a faction thus far remaining mostly in the fringe shadows, we gain an insight into their cunning conspiracies that are set to shake the foundations of Athera.

But they are not the only faction, for post Vastmark Lysaer is descending further and further into religious zealotry, proclaiming himself an avatar of the light and surrounding himself with a sinister sect of priests...

My favourite aspect of this one was to see the continued growth in secondary characters. With the stage being reset, more time is able to be devoted to giving us more of the many wheels turning. Especially the S'brydion family here who are just beyond brilliantly drawn out.

The ending leaves us ready for Grand Conspiracy which is my absolute favourite yet!

[Duffy Pratt · Rating 2 out of 5]

Haven't reviewed the first three books, but I liked them pretty well. This one is the beginning of a third story arc in this long series, and for me, it pretty much seemed to be spinning its wheels. There's an awful lot of verbiage expended for not that much of a payout. There's something off-putting about Wurts' style. In short bursts, her writing can be quite beautiful. But for any extended length and the convoluted sentence constructions just start to wear on me. I particularly dislike how often she uses, improperly, the construction, If this, then... She almost always uses it where the "if" clause is not stating a condition or possibility, but rather describing something factual. Once in a while, this would be OK, but it begins to feel like the construction appears on every page, and sometimes more. And the other thing is that I typically would not notice things like that if I find a novel otherwise engaging. Here, I just do not.

Not sure whether I will continue with this series. Too bad, because the beginning had a lot of promise.

[T.A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m very annoyed at myself that it’s taken me so long to finish this book. This is no reflection on the book it is in my opinion amazing and really makes you think about people’s perceptions, biases and how twisted anger and hatred can make people.

It’s just taken me this long because I own this book and it’s a big book (it’s actually 540 pages; 565 if you include the glossary) so I didn’t carry it around with me. Then me being me I magpie brained and requested lots of books I’ve been wanting to read from the library. To be honest these are all just excuses because I have no idea what happened to this year I feel like it should still be March and it’s almost November. Anyway I should have prioritised this book and I didn’t and now I have a massive pile of library books my non willpower made me borrow so I’m probably not going to get to the next book in the series for a while. Why do I do this to myself?

Anyway if you enjoy the previous series arch you’ll enjoy this one.

[Wolf (Alpha) · Rating 5 out of 5]

So this is book four. I loved this book so much. I hate how the brothers are still locked in conflict and still fighting with each other. I hate how Koriani joins Lysaer and how it messes up Arithons work. I love the tense parts and the easy going parts. I can't put this book down. So good. 5 star rating.