Deadhouse Gates, Malazan Book of the Fallen 02

Deadhouse Gates is the second novel in Steven Erikson's epic fantasy series, the Malazan Book of the Fallen. Deadhouse Gates follows on from the first novel, Gardens of the Moon and takes place simultaneously with events in the third novel Memories of Ice.

Set in a brilliantly-realized world ravaged by anarchy and dark, uncontrollable magic, Deadhouse Gates is the thrilling, brutal second chapter in the Malazan Book of the Fallen. A powerful novel of war, intrigue and betrayal, it confirms Steven Erikson as a storyteller of breathtaking skill, imagination and originality.

Gardens of the Moon, Malazan Book of the Fallen 01

Gardens of the Moon is the first novel in the Malazan Book of the Fallen epic fantasy series written by Steven Erikson. It was published in 1999 and in 2000, it was nominated for a World Fantasy Award as one of the year's best fantasy novels.

The trade mark of Erikson's books in this series is multiple layered storylines and a large cast of characters. The complexity of the plot and the number of characters present a substantial obstacle to a complete enjoyment of this book. I was also of the impression that Erikson did not want to make it easier on the readers. It reminded me of the swimming teaching technique when the one is thrown in the deep water and has two options: learn to swim or drown. I, for myself, survived, and plan on continuing with the series but I am afraid that many a reader will not reach the shallow end, both to the regret of the reader and the author.

Reading in 2019.

This is the list of books that I read last year with a few thoughts on each one.

The Sword by Joshua Luna Vol. 1 – 4

An excellent graphic novel in four parts. A very interesting mix of mythology and superheroism. Great use of artifact, i.e. sword, as a plot device.

The Liar’s Key by Mark Lawrence

The second part in the Red Queen’s War trilogy. Made me love Lawrence very much. The characterization in the entire trilogy is fantastic.

The Wheel of Osheim by Mark Lawrence

The conclusion of the Red Queen’s War. I loved how fantasy was blended with science. Lawrence is a great author.

Reading in 2018

For the first time I decided to take up the reading challenge on the Goodreads social network. I have managed to complete the challenge, although I felt a bit like cheating because I included some graphic novels in the list.

Be that as it may, here is the list of books.

1. The Metabarons, Alejandro Jodorowsky, Juan Giménez, first part (four of eight books)

A fireworks of ideas, beautifully drawn, a joy to read.

2. The Magic Mountain, Thomas Mann

Huge piece of literature. A bit hard to plough through at times but rewarding in the end.

3. David Weber, Uncompromising Honor

The final chapter in the saga of Honor Harrington. A satisfactory conclusion, and a very enjoyable read.