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lundos's review
5.0
Best fantasy, high fantasy, dark fantasy, epic fantasy or whatever fantasy you want to call it series ever written. Superior to all in language, scope, vision, plot, and characters.
reafnal's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
One of my all time favourite fantasy series, but definitely not for everyone. Erikson crafts a work so rich in detail and history that it can feel overwhelming. Best to go with the flow, not understand everything, and slowly piece together the world over the course of the series. The events primarily follow soldiers, rulers, and gods so expect a pretty heavy and dark plot.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Addiction, Animal cruelty, Animal death, Body horror, Bullying, Child abuse, Child death, Chronic illness, Confinement, Cursing, Death, Drug abuse, Drug use, Emotional abuse, Genocide, Gore, Incest, Mental illness, Physical abuse, Slavery, Torture, Violence, Forced institutionalization, Blood, Grief, Cannibalism, Death of parent, Murder, Fire/Fire injury, Alcohol, Colonisation, War, and Injury/Injury detail
tugboet's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
nandeeshbm's review
5.0
It was January 1st, and I had just returned from a New Year celebration. I found myself on a train, traveling back to my hometown after a memorable party. It had been a year since I began my reading journey, exploring different books and genres. Although I had enjoyed my reading experience so far, I felt a strong pull towards the world of fantasy. A friend had once mentioned that fantasy novels were not just ordinary books, but a unique experience. Intrigued by the challenge, I decided to delve into the realm of fantasy.
Two years ago, while browsing Reddit, I stumbled upon a discussion about the greatest fantasy novels of all time. Opinions varied, with some praising "The Lord of the Rings" and others favoring "A Song of Ice and Fire." Among the countless suggestions, one series stood out: Malazan. The name sounded amusing, and I couldn't help but wonder what this mysterious series had to offer. Curiosity piqued, I delved deeper into the online world, reading posts and reviews that overwhelmingly praised the Malazan series.
However, I also came across a comment suggesting that Malazan might not be the ideal starting point for a fantasy enthusiast. It was recommended to read other foundational series first, such as Joe Abercrombie's works, to better grasp the genre. Nevertheless, the name "Malazan" had already etched itself into my mind, and I couldn't shake off the desire to explore this intriguing world.
In the following year, I embarked on my fantasy reading journey, starting with the beloved Harry Potter series, which had captivated me since childhood. It was a nostalgic and delightful experience. Next, I delved into George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series, a sprawling epic filled with intricate world-building, compelling characters, and political intrigues. Although I cherished this journey, I yearned for a fantasy series that delved deeper into the realm of magic, challenging me to unravel its mysteries.
After completing these series, I once again found myself drawn to the name that had captivated my attention before: Malazan. Opinions on the series were polarized, with some hailing it as the pinnacle of fantasy, praising its world-building, complex multiple points of view, and the unparalleled magic system it introduced. However, there were also dissenting voices, claiming that the series was confusing, convoluted, and difficult to connect with.
One comment caught my eye, stating that the Malazan series was like life itself – a journey filled with highs and lows, confusion, and ultimately, a profound connection of all the scattered dots. Intrigued by this notion, I decided to cast aside the opinions and dive into the Malazan series, disregarding any external influence.
Allow me to share a brief background about myself. I am a 26-year-old Indian, not a native English speaker, and a budding reader. I also run a struggling business, trying to make ends meet. Over the past two years, I have embarked on a personal quest to explore the deeper truths of life through reading philosophical works by various thinkers. Little did I know that a fantasy series would provide me with insights into the profound aspects of life that no philosopher had managed to convey.
On that particular night, as I embarked on a train journey, ready to immerse myself in the world of Malazan, I had a copy of the first book, "Gardens of the Moon," in hand. The initial 50 pages left me bewildered and lost, as if I had been dropped into an unknown continent with unfamiliar characters and events unfolding. I struggled to make sense of it all. Frustration set in, and I closed the book, deleting it from my Kindle. I even wrote a painful negative comment on Goodreads, vowing never to touch the series again. It was a disheartening experience, and for a week, I couldn't bring myself to read anything.
In an attempt to confirm my decision, I watched several negative reviews of the Malazan series. Yet, deep down, I yearned for a captivating fantasy world. I scoured YouTube for alternative book recommendations but found no solace. Giving up on a series without even finishing the first book felt like a personal defeat, a cowardly act that I couldn't bear. So, against my doubts and hesitations, I decided to give Malazan another chance.
Luckily, I stumbled upon the beautiful guidebook slides created by the 'Ten Very Big Books' team. Armed with this guide, I embarked on my second attempt at reading the series, and within eight days, I devoured "Gardens of the Moon." It was a delightful experience. Slowly but surely, I began to grasp the intricacies of the world Erikson had crafted. To aid my understanding, I downloaded a map of the Malazan Empire, which served as a valuable reference. The characters came to life, and I found myself enthralled by the secrecy of Quick Ben, the majesty of Anomander Rake, and the skills of Kalam. Kruppe's enchanting prose became my favorite aspect of the series. With each passing chapter, my initial confusion dissipated, and as I reached the end of the first book, it felt like a solid foundation had been laid for the grand journey to come. The book introduced numerous concepts, leaving them open for exploration in the subsequent installments. The final battle was both satisfying and filled with foreshadowing, teasing the epic tale that awaited.
As I eagerly delved into the second book, "Deadhouse Gates," I found myself transported to a different continent within the Malazan world: the Seven Cities. Here, rebellion and uprisings against the mighty Malazan Empire took center stage. New characters were introduced, each playing a crucial role in the unfolding narrative. The world-building once again impressed me, and the magic system expanded, particularly through the exploration of warrens. However, it was the legendary "Chain of Dogs" storyline that captivated me the most. Who would have thought that military tactics and principles could be blended so seamlessly with fantastic fiction, creating a compelling and poignant tale? High Fist Coltaine's character touched my heart, and the philosophy of sacrifice and unwavering determination resonated deeply.
The third book, "Memories of Ice," transported me back to the Genebackis continent, where I witnessed the horrors and wonders of a world in turmoil. The enigmatic character Kruppe continued to weave his beautiful tales, captivating me with every word. This book marked a turning point in the series, expanding its scope and delving further into the magic system. The concepts of Destriant, Shield-Anvil, and Mortal Sword intrigued me, as they presented a unique perspective on the relationships between gods and mortals. The intricate portrayal of how gods are shaped by their worshipers and how the whims of believers shape the gods themselves fascinated me. "Memories of Ice" explored the devastation and atrocities of war, delving into the twisted depths of the human mind driven by a thirst for power and violence. Whiskeyjack emerged as a beloved character, and the book delved into the intricate web of manipulation between gods and humans. It became my favorite book in the series, until…
The fourth book, "House of Chains," showcases the writer's mastery of storytelling. He takes a bold approach by focusing on a single point of view for the first quarter of the book, a display of pure storytelling prowess. Through the character of Karsa Orlong, a warrior on a personal journey of self-discovery, we witness profound truths about the world unfold. He traverses continents, enslaves others, and even becomes a slave himself. Meanwhile, in the city of Seven Cities, the rebellion against the mighty Malazan Empire takes a drastic turn, and we are introduced to the majestic character of Tavore Paran. Karsa Orlong's storyline became my favorite, as it imparts valuable life lessons, teaching us how an individual's perspective can be transformed for the betterment of humanity.
The fifth book, "Midnight Tides," truly deserves its own series, perhaps even a trilogy, as it introduces a completely new world. We are transported to the empire of Letheras, where a mysterious species resides, possessing their own unique rituals, magic, and concepts. It is a frozen continent, not in the literal sense, but frozen to such an extent that even the gods cannot bless their worshipers. The people are devoid of gods and salvation, and the path of Hood, the god of death, is closed. This book delves into the intricate concepts of politics, cunning, and the abuses of power that can occur when a civilization devoid of fear of the divine believes it can act without consequences. It also explores the themes of slavery and ownership, drawing parallels to modern-day ideologies such as capitalism, communism, and democracy.
In the sixth novel, "The Bonehunters," we return to the Seven Cities, where a formidable army is assembled to suppress and defeat the uprising led by Shaik. This book is a military marvel, showcasing how a determined military force defies all odds to achieve what is necessary for the betterment of the world. We are introduced to a host of characters who leave a lasting impact until the end. The final 200 pages of this book will undoubtedly reshape your perspective on world politics. The victorious army that conquered a continent is met with hostility in their own city, leading the Bonehunters to become an independent force. The bravery displayed by Kalam in his efforts to save Tavore Paran is a sequence that resonates deeply. It teaches us invaluable lessons about the importance of brotherhood, belief, trust, and sacrifice.
"Reaper's Gale," the seventh book, takes us back to the continent of Lether, now under the occupation of the mighty yet foolish Tiste Edur. This installment provides profound insights into the politics of a city and the individuals who exploit political power at the expense of others. The dynamic duo of Tehol and Bugg never fails to delight readers, showcasing the challenges faced by an indifferent ruler and disinterested ministers in their quest to govern an empire. It reminds us that not everyone who desires to rule is capable of effectively leading an empire—it is a challenging art in itself.
And now we arrive at "Toll the Hounds," my personal favorite in the series. Not for Kruppe's delightful ramblings, although I could listen to him all day. This book embodies the true essence of the writer's vision: compassion. Every character, whether good or bad, demonstrates their capacity for compassion towards their city, loved ones, friends, and even foes. Some characters go to great lengths, even sacrificing their own lives, to embody this one quality—compassion. It's no wonder that Steve referred to this book as the "cipher" for the entire series. "Toll the Hounds" takes us back to the beloved continent of Genebackis, where significant events unfold, convergences occur, and loose ends from previous books are masterfully tied together. The sacrifices and acts of bravery by various characters in the final chapters are truly remarkable, leaving an indelible mark on your reading journey. This book serves as a closure for many storylines, leaving only the most essential and significant elements for the ultimate showdown.
The final two books, "Dust of Dreams" and "The Crippled God," combine to form a grand epic, spanning a vast scale. "Dust of Dreams" introduces us to the concept of suffering, both inflicted by humans in the name of god and endured by the gods in their pursuit of worshippers. While some may find the part involving the 'snake' to be less captivating, for me, it stands as one of the most enlightening sequences in the entire book. The concluding chapters of "Dust of Dreams" feature some of the most exhilarating battle sequences in the entire series.
"The Crippled God" employs straightforward storytelling and worldbuilding techniques. Everything begins to fall into place, and within these pages, you will gain a profound understanding of one of the greatest characters in the series, Tavore Paran. She possesses something that everyone should strive to have, even if only in fragments: compassion. Fiddler, who emerges as a fatherly figure to all, including us readers, imparts invaluable lessons about the importance of patience, love, and sacrifice. Ultimately, "The Crippled God" challenges us to acknowledge that there is no absolute good or bad, but rather, compassion must triumph above all.
I realize that I have only scratched the surface, describing merely 1% of the series. My writing abilities can only do so much justice. However, the lessons I have gleaned from the journey are immeasurable. This series has aged me half a year, leaving me with newfound perspectives and principles that have undoubtedly made me a better person.
Steven Erikson, one of the most underappreciated individuals on this planet, is a true wonder. In just a single lifetime, and within the span of ten years through this series, he has crafted a monumental world with countless stories. What astounds me even more is his ability to comprehend and convey profound concepts regarding the deeper aspects of life and philosophy, profoundly impacting the lives of his readers. He has unquestionably changed my life and transformed the way I think. I will forever be grateful for this. I hope that one day, I will have the opportunity to shake Mr. Erikson's hand and express my heartfelt appreciation for the immense impact he has had. He is truly a master of his craft.
As a boy who once struggled to read English novels, completing a series of thousands of pages is an immense victory for me. This series has left me in awe, and I can confidently say that I am a changed person. I never imagined that I would be fortunate enough to encounter such a remarkable work in my lifetime.
I must not forget to acknowledge the incredible "Malazan Empire" Facebook community. I do regret discovering this community late in my reading journey. At the time of discovering the Facebook group, I was engrossed in "House of Chains." To all the members of the community, you have been an integral part of my journey, accompanying me until the very end. I will forever hold each and every one of you in my heart. A special thank you goes to the moderators for their dedication and efforts in fostering such a remarkable community.
Also ‘Beak is a sweetheart’
Two years ago, while browsing Reddit, I stumbled upon a discussion about the greatest fantasy novels of all time. Opinions varied, with some praising "The Lord of the Rings" and others favoring "A Song of Ice and Fire." Among the countless suggestions, one series stood out: Malazan. The name sounded amusing, and I couldn't help but wonder what this mysterious series had to offer. Curiosity piqued, I delved deeper into the online world, reading posts and reviews that overwhelmingly praised the Malazan series.
However, I also came across a comment suggesting that Malazan might not be the ideal starting point for a fantasy enthusiast. It was recommended to read other foundational series first, such as Joe Abercrombie's works, to better grasp the genre. Nevertheless, the name "Malazan" had already etched itself into my mind, and I couldn't shake off the desire to explore this intriguing world.
In the following year, I embarked on my fantasy reading journey, starting with the beloved Harry Potter series, which had captivated me since childhood. It was a nostalgic and delightful experience. Next, I delved into George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series, a sprawling epic filled with intricate world-building, compelling characters, and political intrigues. Although I cherished this journey, I yearned for a fantasy series that delved deeper into the realm of magic, challenging me to unravel its mysteries.
After completing these series, I once again found myself drawn to the name that had captivated my attention before: Malazan. Opinions on the series were polarized, with some hailing it as the pinnacle of fantasy, praising its world-building, complex multiple points of view, and the unparalleled magic system it introduced. However, there were also dissenting voices, claiming that the series was confusing, convoluted, and difficult to connect with.
One comment caught my eye, stating that the Malazan series was like life itself – a journey filled with highs and lows, confusion, and ultimately, a profound connection of all the scattered dots. Intrigued by this notion, I decided to cast aside the opinions and dive into the Malazan series, disregarding any external influence.
Allow me to share a brief background about myself. I am a 26-year-old Indian, not a native English speaker, and a budding reader. I also run a struggling business, trying to make ends meet. Over the past two years, I have embarked on a personal quest to explore the deeper truths of life through reading philosophical works by various thinkers. Little did I know that a fantasy series would provide me with insights into the profound aspects of life that no philosopher had managed to convey.
On that particular night, as I embarked on a train journey, ready to immerse myself in the world of Malazan, I had a copy of the first book, "Gardens of the Moon," in hand. The initial 50 pages left me bewildered and lost, as if I had been dropped into an unknown continent with unfamiliar characters and events unfolding. I struggled to make sense of it all. Frustration set in, and I closed the book, deleting it from my Kindle. I even wrote a painful negative comment on Goodreads, vowing never to touch the series again. It was a disheartening experience, and for a week, I couldn't bring myself to read anything.
In an attempt to confirm my decision, I watched several negative reviews of the Malazan series. Yet, deep down, I yearned for a captivating fantasy world. I scoured YouTube for alternative book recommendations but found no solace. Giving up on a series without even finishing the first book felt like a personal defeat, a cowardly act that I couldn't bear. So, against my doubts and hesitations, I decided to give Malazan another chance.
Luckily, I stumbled upon the beautiful guidebook slides created by the 'Ten Very Big Books' team. Armed with this guide, I embarked on my second attempt at reading the series, and within eight days, I devoured "Gardens of the Moon." It was a delightful experience. Slowly but surely, I began to grasp the intricacies of the world Erikson had crafted. To aid my understanding, I downloaded a map of the Malazan Empire, which served as a valuable reference. The characters came to life, and I found myself enthralled by the secrecy of Quick Ben, the majesty of Anomander Rake, and the skills of Kalam. Kruppe's enchanting prose became my favorite aspect of the series. With each passing chapter, my initial confusion dissipated, and as I reached the end of the first book, it felt like a solid foundation had been laid for the grand journey to come. The book introduced numerous concepts, leaving them open for exploration in the subsequent installments. The final battle was both satisfying and filled with foreshadowing, teasing the epic tale that awaited.
As I eagerly delved into the second book, "Deadhouse Gates," I found myself transported to a different continent within the Malazan world: the Seven Cities. Here, rebellion and uprisings against the mighty Malazan Empire took center stage. New characters were introduced, each playing a crucial role in the unfolding narrative. The world-building once again impressed me, and the magic system expanded, particularly through the exploration of warrens. However, it was the legendary "Chain of Dogs" storyline that captivated me the most. Who would have thought that military tactics and principles could be blended so seamlessly with fantastic fiction, creating a compelling and poignant tale? High Fist Coltaine's character touched my heart, and the philosophy of sacrifice and unwavering determination resonated deeply.
The third book, "Memories of Ice," transported me back to the Genebackis continent, where I witnessed the horrors and wonders of a world in turmoil. The enigmatic character Kruppe continued to weave his beautiful tales, captivating me with every word. This book marked a turning point in the series, expanding its scope and delving further into the magic system. The concepts of Destriant, Shield-Anvil, and Mortal Sword intrigued me, as they presented a unique perspective on the relationships between gods and mortals. The intricate portrayal of how gods are shaped by their worshipers and how the whims of believers shape the gods themselves fascinated me. "Memories of Ice" explored the devastation and atrocities of war, delving into the twisted depths of the human mind driven by a thirst for power and violence. Whiskeyjack emerged as a beloved character, and the book delved into the intricate web of manipulation between gods and humans. It became my favorite book in the series, until…
The fourth book, "House of Chains," showcases the writer's mastery of storytelling. He takes a bold approach by focusing on a single point of view for the first quarter of the book, a display of pure storytelling prowess. Through the character of Karsa Orlong, a warrior on a personal journey of self-discovery, we witness profound truths about the world unfold. He traverses continents, enslaves others, and even becomes a slave himself. Meanwhile, in the city of Seven Cities, the rebellion against the mighty Malazan Empire takes a drastic turn, and we are introduced to the majestic character of Tavore Paran. Karsa Orlong's storyline became my favorite, as it imparts valuable life lessons, teaching us how an individual's perspective can be transformed for the betterment of humanity.
The fifth book, "Midnight Tides," truly deserves its own series, perhaps even a trilogy, as it introduces a completely new world. We are transported to the empire of Letheras, where a mysterious species resides, possessing their own unique rituals, magic, and concepts. It is a frozen continent, not in the literal sense, but frozen to such an extent that even the gods cannot bless their worshipers. The people are devoid of gods and salvation, and the path of Hood, the god of death, is closed. This book delves into the intricate concepts of politics, cunning, and the abuses of power that can occur when a civilization devoid of fear of the divine believes it can act without consequences. It also explores the themes of slavery and ownership, drawing parallels to modern-day ideologies such as capitalism, communism, and democracy.
In the sixth novel, "The Bonehunters," we return to the Seven Cities, where a formidable army is assembled to suppress and defeat the uprising led by Shaik. This book is a military marvel, showcasing how a determined military force defies all odds to achieve what is necessary for the betterment of the world. We are introduced to a host of characters who leave a lasting impact until the end. The final 200 pages of this book will undoubtedly reshape your perspective on world politics. The victorious army that conquered a continent is met with hostility in their own city, leading the Bonehunters to become an independent force. The bravery displayed by Kalam in his efforts to save Tavore Paran is a sequence that resonates deeply. It teaches us invaluable lessons about the importance of brotherhood, belief, trust, and sacrifice.
"Reaper's Gale," the seventh book, takes us back to the continent of Lether, now under the occupation of the mighty yet foolish Tiste Edur. This installment provides profound insights into the politics of a city and the individuals who exploit political power at the expense of others. The dynamic duo of Tehol and Bugg never fails to delight readers, showcasing the challenges faced by an indifferent ruler and disinterested ministers in their quest to govern an empire. It reminds us that not everyone who desires to rule is capable of effectively leading an empire—it is a challenging art in itself.
And now we arrive at "Toll the Hounds," my personal favorite in the series. Not for Kruppe's delightful ramblings, although I could listen to him all day. This book embodies the true essence of the writer's vision: compassion. Every character, whether good or bad, demonstrates their capacity for compassion towards their city, loved ones, friends, and even foes. Some characters go to great lengths, even sacrificing their own lives, to embody this one quality—compassion. It's no wonder that Steve referred to this book as the "cipher" for the entire series. "Toll the Hounds" takes us back to the beloved continent of Genebackis, where significant events unfold, convergences occur, and loose ends from previous books are masterfully tied together. The sacrifices and acts of bravery by various characters in the final chapters are truly remarkable, leaving an indelible mark on your reading journey. This book serves as a closure for many storylines, leaving only the most essential and significant elements for the ultimate showdown.
The final two books, "Dust of Dreams" and "The Crippled God," combine to form a grand epic, spanning a vast scale. "Dust of Dreams" introduces us to the concept of suffering, both inflicted by humans in the name of god and endured by the gods in their pursuit of worshippers. While some may find the part involving the 'snake' to be less captivating, for me, it stands as one of the most enlightening sequences in the entire book. The concluding chapters of "Dust of Dreams" feature some of the most exhilarating battle sequences in the entire series.
"The Crippled God" employs straightforward storytelling and worldbuilding techniques. Everything begins to fall into place, and within these pages, you will gain a profound understanding of one of the greatest characters in the series, Tavore Paran. She possesses something that everyone should strive to have, even if only in fragments: compassion. Fiddler, who emerges as a fatherly figure to all, including us readers, imparts invaluable lessons about the importance of patience, love, and sacrifice. Ultimately, "The Crippled God" challenges us to acknowledge that there is no absolute good or bad, but rather, compassion must triumph above all.
I realize that I have only scratched the surface, describing merely 1% of the series. My writing abilities can only do so much justice. However, the lessons I have gleaned from the journey are immeasurable. This series has aged me half a year, leaving me with newfound perspectives and principles that have undoubtedly made me a better person.
Steven Erikson, one of the most underappreciated individuals on this planet, is a true wonder. In just a single lifetime, and within the span of ten years through this series, he has crafted a monumental world with countless stories. What astounds me even more is his ability to comprehend and convey profound concepts regarding the deeper aspects of life and philosophy, profoundly impacting the lives of his readers. He has unquestionably changed my life and transformed the way I think. I will forever be grateful for this. I hope that one day, I will have the opportunity to shake Mr. Erikson's hand and express my heartfelt appreciation for the immense impact he has had. He is truly a master of his craft.
As a boy who once struggled to read English novels, completing a series of thousands of pages is an immense victory for me. This series has left me in awe, and I can confidently say that I am a changed person. I never imagined that I would be fortunate enough to encounter such a remarkable work in my lifetime.
I must not forget to acknowledge the incredible "Malazan Empire" Facebook community. I do regret discovering this community late in my reading journey. At the time of discovering the Facebook group, I was engrossed in "House of Chains." To all the members of the community, you have been an integral part of my journey, accompanying me until the very end. I will forever hold each and every one of you in my heart. A special thank you goes to the moderators for their dedication and efforts in fostering such a remarkable community.
Also ‘Beak is a sweetheart’
blaiser34's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
towerraven's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
bubletnz's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
inspiring
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
mundanest's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Body horror, Child abuse, Death, Sexual violence, Blood, Grief, and War