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.