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.
