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Night of Knives
A Novel of the Malazan Empire

by Ian C. Esslemont

     

The Malazan Empire is the combined creation of Ian C. Esslemont and Steven Erikson, and from the introduction to Night of Knives, it appears the two men created the world so they could game in it—writing novels based on game worlds can be problematic but certainly it didn't stop Erikson for a moment.

So far, Erikson has written seven novels and three novellas in this world. Night of Knives is the first novel from Ian C. Esslemont. The entire novel takes place in a single day and night—the time period is earlier than all of the Erikson novels.

Despite the short time span, the scope of the novel is huge. Characters rush at you from all directions at the beginning and if you're a newcomer in this world, it's a little overwhelming. As a reader, it was a bit like tumbling into an action movie about halfway through—you're not totally sure what's going on, but you do enjoy all the breathless running around and the howl of the dogs.

The story finally settles down a bit to follow an old soldier named Temper and a young girl named Kiska—one wondering if he has anything left to offer and the other just hoping for a chance. Their personalities push each of them into a terrifying night of magic and violence.

Even if you can't completely sort out all the bits, it's a wild ride. I enjoyed every moment of it. For the most part, this is definitely a novel for those who are already fans of the Malazan Empire—but even a newcomer will find the book so fast paced and exciting that it's a thrill ride. Good luck if you hop on and watch out for the hounds. Their bark is not worse than their bite.

The Book

Tor / Macmillan
May 2009
978-0765323712 / 0765323710
Paperback
Fantasy
More at Amazon.com
Excerpt
NOTE:

The Reviewer

Jan Fields
Reviewed 2009
NOTE: Reviewer Jan Fields is the editor of Kid Magazine Writers emagazine and has written dozens of stories and articles for the children's magazine market.
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