The River Into Darkness books in order

The River Into Darkness is a two-book fantasy series by Sean Russell set in a world where magic and enlightenment-era science coexist, following characters drawn into a conflict between old powers.

Reading order

# Title Published Author Buy on Amazon
1 Beneath the Vaulted Hills 1997 Sean S. Thomas Russell Buy
2 The Compass of the Soul 1998 Sean S. Thomas Russell Buy

The River Into Darkness is a two-book fantasy series by Sean Russell that continues in the same world as his earlier Moontide and Magic Rise duology. Beneath the Vaulted Hills, published in 1997, and The Compass of the Soul, published in 1998, follow new characters who are drawn into the ongoing struggle between the forces of magic and the emerging world of science and reason.

Russell expands the scope of his earlier work, taking characters into darker territory as they confront the lingering power of ancient mages and the consequences of meddling with forces beyond their understanding. The series rewards readers who have read Moontide and Magic Rise first but can be appreciated on its own.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many books are in the The River Into Darkness series?

There are 2 books in the The River Into Darkness series, published between 1997 and 1998.

What is the first book in the The River Into Darkness series?

The first book in the The River Into Darkness series is Beneath the Vaulted Hills, published in 1997.

Is The River Into Darkness connected to the Moontide and Magic Rise series?

Yes, The River Into Darkness is set in the same world as Moontide and Magic Rise, continuing the story of that world’s conflict between fading magic and rising rationalism with a new set of characters and events.

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