You nailed the better points for digging in and giving Malazan the love it deserves. In particular, Erickson explores the moral and ethical realities involved in being a human being. It's a complex series BECAUSE really sitting down and considering how to explore and reconcile wildly opposing moral/ethical frameworks of thought and behavior is a godammned hard thing to do, so hard I honestly couldn't imagine and am lucky someone else could. I spoke with Erickson when he was on tour for Forge of Darkness, and he was clear about how during his anthropology studies that almost being murdered by firing squad in (I think it was Nicaragua) was a massively influential, morally complex experience that is explored in these books in idea. Love the vidoes, Iskar.
Whoa, that’s crazy. I didn’t know about that!!! And I totally agree on the to complexity. I love that scene in gardens of the moon when whiskeyjack is forced to let himself see the squad as brother and friends, which he’d been avoiding since he might have to order them to their deaths... raw stuff. Me likey!! Thanks for watching and for the thoughtful comments brother!
I have just started reading Garden of the Moon. I have been so intimidated about starting this series and was so glad to find your channel. I feel like I needed a conversation partner and really love your down to earth way of talking about Malazan. It makes me feel like I am there in the room with you and we are just nerding out. Keep up the good work.
That’s awesome, so glad you found us too. If you have questions or want to go crazy, join the chat in the discord. Lots of really knowledgeable folks in there and they respect the new recruits and will make sure you don’t get spoiled!
Excellent video! This is a great introduction to the series, which is perhaps the most sophisticated fantasy I know. Definitely not typical fantasy! I read the ten books of The Malazan Book of the Fallen and loved them, though I admit to feeling challenged by their complexity. The characters (which are awesome and brilliantly sketched) seemed so small against the vastness of the story, unlike most fantasy, which tends to focus on a set of characters and make them feel more important than the events around them. The whole perspective is different in Erikson's writing, which seems to emphasize a person's (and even a god's!) relative anonymity in the grand scheme of things. I intend to do a reread of the series in the near future, and right now I'm prepping for that by reading Forge of Darkness from the Kharkanas Trilogy, which I'm loving so far. I'm also going to include the Esslemont books the next time around to fill in some gaps. Once I get a better grip on the Malazan world, I think this series is going to go deep into my top ten favorites. I'm glad to have found your channel -- liked and subbed!
Aw, thanks so much! I couldn’t agree more and it just keeps getting better with every reread. It’s so deep on the emotional side and there so much happening of consequence all over the place that it gets a bad wrap for not having good character development, but I really like it because all the characters seem to be contextualized in the broader scope of this giant 3D world! Thanks so much for watching, commenting, and subbing to the channel!! 🙏 look forward to having you around!!
Been searching for a book series to start reading, you have just convinced me to get the Malazan series, thanks, I just ordered the 1st book off amazon now.
I still think this is the best video to give to somebody who might be interested in MBotF, or someone you might want to convince. Watched this again and sending it to a friend who asked me "about those interesting books you are reading" :D Thanks for being here for this community!
New sub here - I found your channel through Philip Chase. I'm gearing myself up to have the courage to start this series and checking out some of your content! Thanks for the video!
I started the Malazan Book of the Fallen series almost a year ago now. I’m between Toll the Hounds and Dust of Dreams. I wanted to finish the series in a year, but it looks like I will need a mental break before taking on the last two. Toll the Hounds shook me on a personal level.
@@sneezydeezymcdeluxe7015 I did! I was still pretty shook by TtH when I finished the series, and I’m still shook by the whole series. I wanna read it all again so much, but I’m about to start a 3 year MFA degree program in Creative Writing and probably won’t have the time for it, ha. (Totally mentioned Malazan in my cover letter to the program as an inspiration though.)
Thanks to you, I started Gardens of the moon and is on the 3rd chapter. I saw at least a 100 reviews showing that the book was not much commitment worth the time, but your channel has made me do the impossible and I am sure I would finish the entire series. keep up the good work, I hope many would find this channel and inspire to have the adventure of a lifetime.
Good, I’m so glad you decided to dive in-it’s well worth it and a lot different than most of the stuff you’ll read! Appreciate the kind words and look forward to chatting with you as you get deeper into the books!
When you get to see Surly fight in the return of the crimson guard that was a great character point. Upto then it was all talk and reference. But they make a point to say she is so badass she is above using weapons even fighting a fully armoured crimson guard its no bother to her fists.
Cool video! I'm relatively new to fantasy. Read Lord of the Rings and Hobbit as a teen, the first GoT book and am almost done with the First Law trilogy. Just bought all of the Malazan books :) I'm excited--seems challenging and a long deep dive into another reality.
You have a new sub! On my first read of this series, and I didn't think I would be able to fill the void left by The Wheel of Time, but oh boy was I wrong. Currently about halfway through Midnight Tides, and this is the most diverse series I have ever read. Just when I think Erikson can't surprise me again he does (looking at you Rhulad!) So far I am loving the series, thanks for the quality content!
That’s sounds familiar. I came to Malazan after WoT and GoT and was looking for something deeper, darker, and more epic and this checks all those boxes. So glad you found the channel and are enjoying the content!!
Excellent, I enjoyed this video and I can see your passion for Malazan. Me, I think I'm just scared of the big commitment lol, but I do want to read it. Whatever I'll finish my TBR and start Malazan
Excellent review/video. Fully on point and I appreciate your obvious enthusiasm for this TRULY epic series (lots of pretenders being published overusing that word for marketing. Writing umpteen books doesn't make your story epic). Looks like some good comments below as well. Very refreshing.
Thank you very much! This one defines what it means to be epic! And ya, the comments are the best part of this for me! Most of my subs know more about the series than I do, so it has been a lot of fun learning from and chatting with them, which is awesome because that was my primary goal for starting the channel. Thanks so much for watching!!
As usual, I read through the entire 10 books in a few months, taking it as I went alomg. It was quite a journey. Doing a re-read though as shown me just how quality the first 4 books are. Actually knowing the characters and having background knowledge is it were really shows how detailed the author goes and how utterly realistic it is. Feel a like a very real world and I'm just in book 2 of the re-read
Very cool I’m also in my reread on DG. First time though, you’re so obsessed with finding out what happens that you don’t realize how many seeds get planted early off that beat fruit later. Such a good series!!
I finished Wheel of Time around March this year and now have my sights on Malazan. I had read Gardens of the Moon and Deadhouse Gates but that was about ten years ago, so I’m going to need to reread them. I’m a little nervous, though. Wheel of Time was intimidating because of its size. Malazan is also huge, but it’s also much more dense and complicated.
Don’t be nervous. It is just as big and more complex than WoT, but it’s also a lot more rewarding when you make it to the end! You’re going to be fine and I bet you end up loving it!
I used to not want a huge fan base for Malazan for fear of insincere "posers", I don't know what I exactly I thought perhaps I liked no one knew about it and it was mine alone. After having been into it for a few years now, I really like what your doing. I got one cousin into it and that's it! Every time we see each other it's all we talk about. I want other people to nerd out with too!! Other than lurking in the sub reddit. It's also nice to have a new channel on this platform to look forward to again. Great work, Thanks again!
Thank you so much for checking out the video. Once I realized that none of my friends were taking the bait and that there’s barely anything on YT for it, I decided to give it a shot. No expert, but having a lot of fun. Thanks for your comment! 🙏💪👊
I like that none of the stories are predictable. Modern books, TV, movies, etc. are getting so much better in that regard but still it’s great to find a lot of story content that you just never see the surprises until they are sprung. You touched a little on all the races in the world that are one aspect of the world building. I think it’s worth noting that the races aren’t necessarily the typical ones in fantasy tropes. There are no Orcs, as far as I know. Perhaps the Tiste could be considered elves, but if so, the dark skinned elves aren’t evil and live underground. Trell and Toblakai (most likely misspelling that) can possibly be considered Ogres, but very intelligent ones a far from stereotype. Jaghut! Kachainkamal with sky keeps! Genius fantasy. To go with the magic system, how about the whole way gods and worshipers interact? Gods come and go over time as their worship builds or wanes. And gods aren’t necessarily immortal.
That’s a great point about all the races not being stereotyped. I also DEFINITELY should have mentioned the interaction between gods and warrens. It definitely has some Neil Gaiman-esque qualities to it where if you’re not getting worshipped, you ain’t around or at least severely diminished power-wise and I LOVE that the gods can be killed-what a spin! Thanks for the awesome comment! 💪👍👊✊
The non-standard fantasy races was one of the main initial draws for me. Coming from Tolkien and D&D stuff I had my fill of elves, dwarves and orcs. The Tiste are elf-like, the Jaghut are orc-like, there are ogre or giant variants, and undead... but all of them with a very unique twist and highly detailed cultures and backstories.
I finished GotM and it is hands down the best fantasy novel I’ve ever read. So dense and complex. I lost myself in it. Actually got me through a really hard time in my life. Now I’m reading Deadhouse Gates....OMG! Lol By the way I really love your vids!! Thank you!
Awesome--huge fan of Mike's Book Reviews! So glad you came by to check out the channel! I haven't done the full cosmere yet... gonna wait until sotrmlight is done because I still have a lot of tbrs in the meantime.
I agree. You feel like you’re flung into the deep end a little bit, but it all comes together at the end and you’re left with your mouth hanging wide open!!! Good stuff!!!
Just found you from 10 really big books podcast. Red through first time starting 10 years ago or so whilst living in china.read through second time after my mum died and marriage broke up...that was a different read through for those reasons. Waiting for a third read through. It's just the best..but be warned....since finishing for second time I've tried lots of other series....and I just cannot get into them....so for me malazan is fantasy and nothing else can come close to comparing. Roll on the karsa trilogy. Can't wait.
That’s kinda how I feel too. I went back to WoT to get ready for the show and everything else just seems a bit childish to me now. I’ve gotten some good recommendations lately though so I’m excited to give some new things a try as I mix in with Malazan!
Enjoy your perspective. I have been reading sci fi and fantasy for over 40 years. The Malazan books are by far the most intense, addictive and compelling for me. What stands out in my mind is the evolution of the characters. You mention Karsa and he a great example. At first blush he seriously pissed me off. I wanted him wrecked. But by the second half of the main series I absolutely loved Karsa. Definitely a character operating the the grey areas of morality. Yet within that he was true to his convictions and in the big picture I felt he was a force for good. All relative of course. Erikson took a character from vile to hero for me in a way that was amazing. The only other writer I have encountered that could do that is Steven Donaldson. Who actually recommended Erikson to my brother at a book signing 15 years ago. FWIW.
Thank you very much. I can’t believe I don’t hate Karsa based on his opening stuff before he’s enslaved, but that’s so real for me because everybody has done bad stuff in reality. Not on that level, but still appreciate how you get the long arc that lets you step back and view things in that broader perspective. I appreciate you watching and leaving a killer comment!
Just finished Deadhouse Gates last night, took a few months after GotM due to moving etc.. but loving the series so far.. now I feel im tune into Errikson's writing style now too, but I dont understand why Deadhouse Gates gets such a bad press, yes there is alot more new characters and events but the book is my favorite so far. Looking forward to starting the 3rd book Memories of Ice, after I now read my in-between book. Thanks for your videos and encouraging me to pick up Malazan.
fantastic, spoiler free review of an absolute real world escaping series of books. I read these books over the course of several months...maybe close to a year...slow reader. to this day I do not claim to even understand what I read. at the end I was thinking...what the hell did I just read..what actually happened? what was the ultimate end? I have come to the conclusion that It did not end...you start the story by jumping on to a rolling boulder, where the story challenges you to catch up and come along for the ride, and it leaves you by saying, ok your time is done, get off the boulder, I am going to carry on rolling regardless. your review makes me want to re-read it and see if I can understand it better. for me, the main draw was the characters, I absolutely loved certain characters....anomander rake, quick ben, kruppe, paran and gruntle!!! and many more I have forgotten. I will deffinately be jumping back into this world for a re-read very, very soon. great vid, subbed for what it's worth
Thanks so much for the feedback and for giving your thoughts on the series. I can 100% relate to those sentiments soooo much. I’m on my 3rd reread and am finally feeling like I’m able to absorb and appreciate all the nuance and subtlety that is just threaded throughout the whole thing. Thank you for subscribing-look forward to seeing how things go on your second time around!!
I was reading translated version of Gardens of the Moon (English not my native language) with constant feeling that I must read it in English to get most out of it. But due to lack of skill I'm slow reader in English, it took me about a year to finish ASOIAF in English. God only knows how long it would take to finish 10 books of Malazan, it was a huge turn off point for me. But after your video I'm ready. Thank you for your efforts and time.
Thanks so much for letting me know. I think you can just take your time and tackle each book at a time. Once you get going, you'll probably build some momentum and be able to chip away at them a bit faster. But regardless, these are books to be savored in any case so I don't see anything wrong with working through them at your own pace because the point is the journey rather than a final climactic conclusion.
Less than 200 pages into gardens of the moon after years of putting it off , had them sitting on the shelves . No idea why I waited so long. It’s like absolutely nothing else I have ever read. Eriksons style is utterly intriguing , mysterious and page turning. His prose is deep and at times poetic and thought provoking. If this is the weakest book of the series then I’m beyond excited to read the series. I can’t begin to imagine what is ahead of me
Hi just wondering ive only read one high adult fantasy series and that was ASOIAF it is my favourite book series of all time and I cant read anything YA anymore since ive read it (ive reread it 4 times..) ive been trying to find a new adult fantasy series and im just wondering and i know kts a wierd question but do you think someone whos read ASOIAF would like this? Im also tryinf wheel of time i bought the first book last night. I just really think ive found my genre with these lol and hope they are good...
Omg! I'm the same. ASOIAF got me in to fantasy and it's all I've read. I absolutely loved it and I feel like I can't find a good series to fill that void. I tried the Gentleman Bastards series and it just wasn't for me. So I was wondering about Malazan and Wheel of Time. From what I've seen, I think Malazan is more up our alley. Pls tell me if you find anything good! Lol
Beak is my boy! Beautiful soul. I love this series because it feel more realistic due to the full gamete of emotions this series evoke. Plus, I have a thing for Potshards.
Last time I read Malazan I got to about 2/3rds of the way through Dust of Dreams when I sensed an Extremely Unpleasant Event which had been blatantly telegraphed all the way through the book was about to take place, and I just couldn't face it. Next time I try I'm just going to have to steel myself and get through it, because the series is truly superb and although I have not completed it it is among my favourites.
I totally understand that sentiment! There are definitely some parts that are tough to get through, but the end is rewarding and didn’t see it coming so I think it’s very worth it to push through if you can! Thanks so much for the thoughtful comment!
I'm very thankful that you mentioned about this series not being about liberal identity politics because I have been shocked at how many fantasy books beat you over the head with their ideologies and I think it's helpful to know that books stay politically neutral and focus on the story and characters, because their the books i'm interested in.
You can't know how much of a relief it is to hear that... I wanna write epic fantasy one day but Its a little depressing knowing I might never gain commercial success because of an unwillingness to pander to an ideology I dont believe in
I've reread malazan only 4 times, and I'm no expert for it, but this book honestly did not do me justice. It broke my perceptions on what a great series is. I cant read other series and not compare it with Malazan. Perhaps I love the fact that it is written in a historical, documentary type of manner but the characters in it... my gosh, I adore almost all of them. From the Bridgeburners, to the Claw, to the Tiste Andii, to the Shore, to the Grey Shields, to the K'Chain Che'malle... each race is different yet familiar. Each place in this epic tale evokes a sense of home but yet exotic in a way. I literally cried at the deaths and shouted with glee at the victories that they achieved. I laughed at quips and quirks of the characters, knowing that Erikson has fully embraced his DnD, military and anthropology background to weave this grand series. That's why I love it, it's an emotional roller coaster and how Erikson manages to engage his characters that are superheroes but yet still...human.
👆 this one gets it! It’s crazy how high fantasy with warrens, gods, dragons, etc can feel like more real emotions than anything else! Thanks so much for the amazing comments!
I guess I'll give it a try I've been itching to read something after recently finishing the wheel of time. Remember the wheel turns as the whe oh wrong book yeah I think I'll read this to get "nynaeve tugging her hair" off the top of my head. I can't wait to get even more depressed than I am from finishing the wheel of time. Did I mention I finished the wheel of time? Anyways great review *sigh* I'm legitemaly depressed 😭
Currently reading Malazan (just finished Bonehunters last night!), and I have to agree that my favorite thing about the series so far is the cast diversity and how the world is so egalitarian. Race, gender, sexual orientation; these things are literally the least important factors in how people are viewed. It's really amazing!
Okay man I've been reading all my life I only started reading fantasy about 8 years ago for some reason it just never caught my eye then I had a friend tell me about a book called the Wizard's First Rule so I checked it out and it been reading fantasy ever since now I have heard so many good things about the Malazan series but everybody says that getting through book 1 super hard so I guess this is what keeps putting me off to it but I really want to read this series so when I start reading it if I start having problems do you think you would help out some maybe keep me moving on since you love this series so much I thought maybe I would ask someone
I just got this translated for me and just wanted to say thanks so much. I couldn't agree more and hopefully these videos will convince people to take advantage of this stunning work that's already finished and ready for them to enjoy! Спасибо, мой друг
I don't think so. You might not pick up on every one of the little themes and underlying things he's trying to discuss, but who are we kidding--neither do most of the adults. If you're ok with super mature topics, then I don't think you need to be a brainiac to enjoy!
Less hair tugging and sniffs. Think of the books like the MCU. Different characters and contitents will be introduced over the first few book that all converge later
Quit the series after first 2 books because it failed to pull me in. I thought character development sucked. Maybe it gets better later but I ran out of patience. I think that those who like event driven series may like it, but those who want character development may dislike Malazan. Since the characters were like cardboard cutouts with names and ranks I just didn't care what happened to any of them. Also I might add I read Malazan right after reading all ASOIAF by GRRM so I noticed the great gap with character building.
That's totally fair, and I think it's definitely a case where it isn't for everyone! I actually think there's great character work in Malazan, it just isn't there as exposition on a page or external dialogue (or even internal monologue), it's kinda there to infer, which can make it seem more slow and ponderous. I might give Memories of Ice a try. It's the most similar to a traditional fantasy book with a conflict, a climax, and a resolution and it also goes back to the characters from the first book that you know instead of having a whole new cast of characters. In any event, I can totally appreciate your opinion and tank you for watching the video and leaving a comment. I'm still going to hold out hope that we can rope you back in one of these days! ;)
Hey all malazfan soldiers gt Temper here apologies I can't be paying member now.just lost home and sooo many wonderful novels including all my give away second hand malaz books I kept to gift fire took it all along with my wonderful dog Kiska luckily my girl and 2dogs and cat survived so all important saved bar 1.u r gr8 community I'll be back cheers ya'll Kia Kaha te Aroha Nui.GT Temper
Dude, don’t even worry about it! Send me an email and let me know if there’s anything I can do to help out!! I can PayPal you back all your $$ and a little bit more too. Are you in New Zealand? I sincerely hope you can bounce back and am thinking good thoughts for you and your family!!! 💪🙏❤️
@@IskarJarak thanku bird that steals we are in NZ yep and appreciate the offer but we'll be okay.jusy wanted to say thanks and I'll be back later hopefully after reading the jhistal and karsa books.talk again in the future.cheers
I don't get the last point about equality / diversity. Why is it a plus that people in a fantasy world don't care if someone is gay or a woman? Haven't read the books, but afaik it's about one important empire and other nations over the stretch of thousands of years. So I would assume that there would be sexists and people that hate gays at least in some parts of a medieval like (?) fantasy world 🤔
I think it could be amazing animated if it was done right. IMO, they’d have to do some pretty big changes to do a live action, but I think it could be done well too. People would probably get pissed though...
You nailed the better points for digging in and giving Malazan the love it deserves. In particular, Erickson explores the moral and ethical realities involved in being a human being. It's a complex series BECAUSE really sitting down and considering how to explore and reconcile wildly opposing moral/ethical frameworks of thought and behavior is a godammned hard thing to do, so hard I honestly couldn't imagine and am lucky someone else could.
I spoke with Erickson when he was on tour for Forge of Darkness, and he was clear about how during his anthropology studies that almost being murdered by firing squad in (I think it was Nicaragua) was a massively influential, morally complex experience that is explored in these books in idea.
Love the vidoes, Iskar.
Whoa, that’s crazy. I didn’t know about that!!! And I totally agree on the to complexity. I love that scene in gardens of the moon when whiskeyjack is forced to let himself see the squad as brother and friends, which he’d been avoiding since he might have to order them to their deaths... raw stuff. Me likey!! Thanks for watching and for the thoughtful comments brother!
On page 1060 of Dust of Dreams right now. I was not prepared for this series. 10/10
You’re on the home stretch! It’s soooo good! ❤️ thanks for leaving a comment!
Ahh yes brother, welcome to the fold
I have just started reading Garden of the Moon. I have been so intimidated about starting this series and was so glad to find your channel. I feel like I needed a conversation partner and really love your down to earth way of talking about Malazan. It makes me feel like I am there in the room with you and we are just nerding out. Keep up the good work.
That’s awesome, so glad you found us too. If you have questions or want to go crazy, join the chat in the discord. Lots of really knowledgeable folks in there and they respect the new recruits and will make sure you don’t get spoiled!
Excellent video! This is a great introduction to the series, which is perhaps the most sophisticated fantasy I know. Definitely not typical fantasy! I read the ten books of The Malazan Book of the Fallen and loved them, though I admit to feeling challenged by their complexity. The characters (which are awesome and brilliantly sketched) seemed so small against the vastness of the story, unlike most fantasy, which tends to focus on a set of characters and make them feel more important than the events around them. The whole perspective is different in Erikson's writing, which seems to emphasize a person's (and even a god's!) relative anonymity in the grand scheme of things. I intend to do a reread of the series in the near future, and right now I'm prepping for that by reading Forge of Darkness from the Kharkanas Trilogy, which I'm loving so far. I'm also going to include the Esslemont books the next time around to fill in some gaps. Once I get a better grip on the Malazan world, I think this series is going to go deep into my top ten favorites. I'm glad to have found your channel -- liked and subbed!
Aw, thanks so much! I couldn’t agree more and it just keeps getting better with every reread. It’s so deep on the emotional side and there so much happening of consequence all over the place that it gets a bad wrap for not having good character development, but I really like it because all the characters seem to be contextualized in the broader scope of this giant 3D world! Thanks so much for watching, commenting, and subbing to the channel!! 🙏 look forward to having you around!!
Been searching for a book series to start reading, you have just convinced me to get the Malazan series, thanks, I just ordered the 1st book off amazon now.
Another great one, Iskar! We need to spread the message far and wide about this once in a lifetime masterpiece of a series!
I still think this is the best video to give to somebody who might be interested in MBotF, or someone you might want to convince. Watched this again and sending it to a friend who asked me "about those interesting books you are reading" :D Thanks for being here for this community!
New sub here - I found your channel through Philip Chase. I'm gearing myself up to have the courage to start this series and checking out some of your content! Thanks for the video!
Awesome, hope you enjoy!!!
I started the Malazan Book of the Fallen series almost a year ago now. I’m between Toll the Hounds and Dust of Dreams. I wanted to finish the series in a year, but it looks like I will need a mental break before taking on the last two. Toll the Hounds shook me on a personal level.
That’s one of the best ones for sure, but the last ones all hit you in the feels super hard!
Me too... Gonna chill a bit before seeing the Adjunct and the Fourteenth once again
The climax of Toll the Hounds might just be the most mind blowing thing I've ever read. Did you finally finish the series?
@@sneezydeezymcdeluxe7015 I did! I was still pretty shook by TtH when I finished the series, and I’m still shook by the whole series. I wanna read it all again so much, but I’m about to start a 3 year MFA degree program in Creative Writing and probably won’t have the time for it, ha.
(Totally mentioned Malazan in my cover letter to the program as an inspiration though.)
Thanks to you, I started Gardens of the moon and is on the 3rd chapter. I saw at least a 100 reviews showing that the book was not much commitment worth the time, but your channel has made me do the impossible and I am sure I would finish the entire series. keep up the good work, I hope many would find this channel and inspire to have the adventure of a lifetime.
Good, I’m so glad you decided to dive in-it’s well worth it and a lot different than most of the stuff you’ll read! Appreciate the kind words and look forward to chatting with you as you get deeper into the books!
When you get to see Surly fight in the return of the crimson guard that was a great character point. Upto then it was all talk and reference. But they make a point to say she is so badass she is above using weapons even fighting a fully armoured crimson guard its no bother to her fists.
Ya, that’s a pretty badass scene. Even Kiska is like, “daaang, who dat?!”
I'm doing the Malazan read along with Mikes Book Review and even more excited after seeing this video. Good vibes man.
Cool video! I'm relatively new to fantasy. Read Lord of the Rings and Hobbit as a teen, the first GoT book and am almost done with the First Law trilogy. Just bought all of the Malazan books :) I'm excited--seems challenging and a long deep dive into another reality.
"ridiciulous. *changes cameraangle* - in a good way"
loved it.
Haha-goofing around with the camera angles to make it a bit more dynamic hopefully. Thanks so much for the feedback and for watching the video!! ❤️💪🙏
ooking forward to starting Malazan next year!
You have a new sub! On my first read of this series, and I didn't think I would be able to fill the void left by The Wheel of Time, but oh boy was I wrong. Currently about halfway through Midnight Tides, and this is the most diverse series I have ever read. Just when I think Erikson can't surprise me again he does (looking at you Rhulad!) So far I am loving the series, thanks for the quality content!
That’s sounds familiar. I came to Malazan after WoT and GoT and was looking for something deeper, darker, and more epic and this checks all those boxes. So glad you found the channel and are enjoying the content!!
I eagerly await the next ASOIAF book! I assume you have read LOTR and The Hobbit?
Actually never read the Tolkien! Need to get around to that someday!!
Don't know why I am watching this, I already bought the first three books. Great video, hyped even more to read through this massive series.
Excellent, I enjoyed this video and I can see your passion for Malazan. Me, I think I'm just scared of the big commitment lol, but I do want to read it. Whatever I'll finish my TBR and start Malazan
It is a big commitment but once you get going, it starts to snowball and the reward is very big!
Great video! Thanks, I'm gonna give it another shot!
Awesome, glad to hear it!! It’s a bear to get started, but it gets really good once you get going!!
Excellent review/video. Fully on point and I appreciate your obvious enthusiasm for this TRULY epic series (lots of pretenders being published overusing that word for marketing. Writing umpteen books doesn't make your story epic). Looks like some good comments below as well. Very refreshing.
Thank you very much! This one defines what it means to be epic! And ya, the comments are the best part of this for me! Most of my subs know more about the series than I do, so it has been a lot of fun learning from and chatting with them, which is awesome because that was my primary goal for starting the channel. Thanks so much for watching!!
Genuinely helpful video
As usual, I read through the entire 10 books in a few months, taking it as I went alomg. It was quite a journey. Doing a re-read though as shown me just how quality the first 4 books are. Actually knowing the characters and having background knowledge is it were really shows how detailed the author goes and how utterly realistic it is. Feel a like a very real world and I'm just in book 2 of the re-read
Very cool I’m also in my reread on DG. First time though, you’re so obsessed with finding out what happens that you don’t realize how many seeds get planted early off that beat fruit later. Such a good series!!
I finished Wheel of Time around March this year and now have my sights on Malazan. I had read Gardens of the Moon and Deadhouse Gates but that was about ten years ago, so I’m going to need to reread them. I’m a little nervous, though. Wheel of Time was intimidating because of its size. Malazan is also huge, but it’s also much more dense and complicated.
Don’t be nervous. It is just as big and more complex than WoT, but it’s also a lot more rewarding when you make it to the end! You’re going to be fine and I bet you end up loving it!
I used to not want a huge fan base for Malazan for fear of insincere "posers", I don't know what I exactly I thought perhaps I liked no one knew about it and it was mine alone. After having been into it for a few years now, I really like what your doing. I got one cousin into it and that's it! Every time we see each other it's all we talk about. I want other people to nerd out with too!! Other than lurking in the sub reddit. It's also nice to have a new channel on this platform to look forward to again. Great work, Thanks again!
Thank you so much for checking out the video. Once I realized that none of my friends were taking the bait and that there’s barely anything on YT for it, I decided to give it a shot. No expert, but having a lot of fun. Thanks for your comment! 🙏💪👊
There are no insincere malazan poser. It's just impossible. Once a reader has gotten to book 4 I'm pretty sure they're good to talk already.
Agreed. Once I was through MOI, I was pretty sure this was going to be a top 3 series for me, and by the end... forget about it!
I like that none of the stories are predictable. Modern books, TV, movies, etc. are getting so much better in that regard but still it’s great to find a lot of story content that you just never see the surprises until they are sprung.
You touched a little on all the races in the world that are one aspect of the world building. I think it’s worth noting that the races aren’t necessarily the typical ones in fantasy tropes. There are no Orcs, as far as I know. Perhaps the Tiste could be considered elves, but if so, the dark skinned elves aren’t evil and live underground. Trell and Toblakai (most likely misspelling that) can possibly be considered Ogres, but very intelligent ones a far from stereotype. Jaghut! Kachainkamal with sky keeps! Genius fantasy.
To go with the magic system, how about the whole way gods and worshipers interact? Gods come and go over time as their worship builds or wanes. And gods aren’t necessarily immortal.
That’s a great point about all the races not being stereotyped. I also DEFINITELY should have mentioned the interaction between gods and warrens. It definitely has some Neil Gaiman-esque qualities to it where if you’re not getting worshipped, you ain’t around or at least severely diminished power-wise and I LOVE that the gods can be killed-what a spin! Thanks for the awesome comment! 💪👍👊✊
The non-standard fantasy races was one of the main initial draws for me. Coming from Tolkien and D&D stuff I had my fill of elves, dwarves and orcs.
The Tiste are elf-like, the Jaghut are orc-like, there are ogre or giant variants, and undead... but all of them with a very unique twist and highly detailed cultures and backstories.
Rob Paul exactly!! Pretty refreshing.
I finished GotM and it is hands down the best fantasy novel I’ve ever read. So dense and complex. I lost myself in it. Actually got me through a really hard time in my life. Now I’m reading Deadhouse Gates....OMG! Lol By the way I really love your vids!! Thank you!
It really is the bomb! So glad you are enjoying the videos!
Mike's book review's sent me. Intrigued. I'll try this series soon. The Cosmere and Dresden has consumed me lol
Awesome--huge fan of Mike's Book Reviews! So glad you came by to check out the channel! I haven't done the full cosmere yet... gonna wait until sotrmlight is done because I still have a lot of tbrs in the meantime.
Mike's book reviews sent me here as well haha. Trying to decide if I want to do his read along next year. Great video!
I ordered Gardens of the moon and Deadhouse gates and they will arrive tomorrow i am excited to get into the series
You’re in for a treat!!
@@IskarJarak I really hope so cause i got the books because of your video :)
@@limbonic2246 challenge accepted. You can thank me later 😉
The learning curve is indeed the bigest draw for me. All the time spent suddenly feels rewarded and it adds to the experience
I agree. You feel like you’re flung into the deep end a little bit, but it all comes together at the end and you’re left with your mouth hanging wide open!!! Good stuff!!!
Just found you from 10 really big books podcast. Red through first time starting 10 years ago or so whilst living in china.read through second time after my mum died and marriage broke up...that was a different read through for those reasons. Waiting for a third read through. It's just the best..but be warned....since finishing for second time I've tried lots of other series....and I just cannot get into them....so for me malazan is fantasy and nothing else can come close to comparing. Roll on the karsa trilogy. Can't wait.
That’s kinda how I feel too. I went back to WoT to get ready for the show and everything else just seems a bit childish to me now. I’ve gotten some good recommendations lately though so I’m excited to give some new things a try as I mix in with Malazan!
Just finished toll the hounds. Knowing am nearing the end of this series tears at my heart. Everything ends....
The rereads are even better, not to worry!! 💪💪❤️👌
Did you finish the series? If so, what are your thoughts on it as a whole?
Enjoy your perspective. I have been reading sci fi and fantasy for over 40 years. The Malazan books are by far the most intense, addictive and compelling for me. What stands out in my mind is the evolution of the characters. You mention Karsa and he a great example. At first blush he seriously pissed me off. I wanted him wrecked. But by the second half of the main series I absolutely loved Karsa. Definitely a character operating the the grey areas of morality. Yet within that he was true to his convictions and in the big picture I felt he was a force for good. All relative of course. Erikson took a character from vile to hero for me in a way that was amazing. The only other writer I have encountered that could do that is Steven Donaldson. Who actually recommended Erikson to my brother at a book signing 15 years ago. FWIW.
Thank you very much. I can’t believe I don’t hate Karsa based on his opening stuff before he’s enslaved, but that’s so real for me because everybody has done bad stuff in reality. Not on that level, but still appreciate how you get the long arc that lets you step back and view things in that broader perspective. I appreciate you watching and leaving a killer comment!
Just finished Deadhouse Gates last night, took a few months after GotM due to moving etc.. but loving the series so far.. now I feel im tune into Errikson's writing style now too, but I dont understand why Deadhouse Gates gets such a bad press, yes there is alot more new characters and events but the book is my favorite so far. Looking forward to starting the 3rd book Memories of Ice, after I now read my in-between book. Thanks for your videos and encouraging me to pick up Malazan.
fantastic, spoiler free review of an absolute real world escaping series of books. I read these books over the course of several months...maybe close to a year...slow reader. to this day I do not claim to even understand what I read. at the end I was thinking...what the hell did I just read..what actually happened? what was the ultimate end? I have come to the conclusion that It did not end...you start the story by jumping on to a rolling boulder, where the story challenges you to catch up and come along for the ride, and it leaves you by saying, ok your time is done, get off the boulder, I am going to carry on rolling regardless. your review makes me want to re-read it and see if I can understand it better. for me, the main draw was the characters, I absolutely loved certain characters....anomander rake, quick ben, kruppe, paran and gruntle!!! and many more I have forgotten. I will deffinately be jumping back into this world for a re-read very, very soon. great vid, subbed for what it's worth
Thanks so much for the feedback and for giving your thoughts on the series. I can 100% relate to those sentiments soooo much. I’m on my 3rd reread and am finally feeling like I’m able to absorb and appreciate all the nuance and subtlety that is just threaded throughout the whole thing. Thank you for subscribing-look forward to seeing how things go on your second time around!!
I was reading translated version of Gardens of the Moon (English not my native language) with constant feeling that I must read it in English to get most out of it. But due to lack of skill I'm slow reader in English, it took me about a year to finish ASOIAF in English. God only knows how long it would take to finish 10 books of Malazan, it was a huge turn off point for me. But after your video I'm ready. Thank you for your efforts and time.
Thanks so much for letting me know. I think you can just take your time and tackle each book at a time. Once you get going, you'll probably build some momentum and be able to chip away at them a bit faster. But regardless, these are books to be savored in any case so I don't see anything wrong with working through them at your own pace because the point is the journey rather than a final climactic conclusion.
I just finished book seven and can't believe how it gets better and better with every book. It's an experience.
It sure is!! I’m really enjoying my 3rd reread - by far the most enjoyable one yet! Thanks for watching and leaving a comment!!
Less than 200 pages into gardens of the moon after years of putting it off , had them sitting on the shelves . No idea why I waited so long. It’s like absolutely nothing else I have ever read. Eriksons style is utterly intriguing , mysterious and page turning. His prose is deep and at times poetic and thought provoking. If this is the weakest book of the series then I’m beyond excited to read the series. I can’t begin to imagine what is ahead of me
Hi just wondering ive only read one high adult fantasy series and that was ASOIAF it is my favourite book series of all time and I cant read anything YA anymore since ive read it (ive reread it 4 times..) ive been trying to find a new adult fantasy series and im just wondering and i know kts a wierd question but do you think someone whos read ASOIAF would like this? Im also tryinf wheel of time i bought the first book last night. I just really think ive found my genre with these lol and hope they are good...
I specifically stumbled onto this while waiting for WoW. Started on ASoIaF a long time ago, so I can definitely say that it works after that!
Omg! I'm the same. ASOIAF got me in to fantasy and it's all I've read. I absolutely loved it and I feel like I can't find a good series to fill that void. I tried the Gentleman Bastards series and it just wasn't for me. So I was wondering about Malazan and Wheel of Time. From what I've seen, I think Malazan is more up our alley. Pls tell me if you find anything good! Lol
Beak is my boy! Beautiful soul.
I love this series because it feel more realistic due to the full gamete of emotions this series evoke. Plus, I have a thing for Potshards.
I know right? Even though it’s gnarly fantasy, it feels like real emotions you’re seeing!
@@IskarJarak it hurts! OMG it hurts!
Hurts soooo good!
Ochre Potsherds in a basin?
Last time I read Malazan I got to about 2/3rds of the way through Dust of Dreams when I sensed an Extremely Unpleasant Event which had been blatantly telegraphed all the way through the book was about to take place, and I just couldn't face it. Next time I try I'm just going to have to steel myself and get through it, because the series is truly superb and although I have not completed it it is among my favourites.
I totally understand that sentiment! There are definitely some parts that are tough to get through, but the end is rewarding and didn’t see it coming so I think it’s very worth it to push through if you can! Thanks so much for the thoughtful comment!
The magic system is planeswalkers from MtG
Interesting. I’m not familiar with MtG, so thanks for the heads up!!
Sending this video to all my friends
Thank you very much!! 🙏💪👊❤️
Your first argument already convinced me.
Awesome, it’s worth it!!
I'm very thankful that you mentioned about this series not being about liberal identity politics because I have been shocked at how many fantasy books beat you over the head with their ideologies and I think it's helpful to know that books stay politically neutral and focus on the story and characters, because their the books i'm interested in.
That’s one of the best parts of Malazan! People are judged based on their deeds-as it should be!! Thanks for your comment!!
You can't know how much of a relief it is to hear that... I wanna write epic fantasy one day but Its a little depressing knowing I might never gain commercial success because of an unwillingness to pander to an ideology I dont believe in
I've reread malazan only 4 times, and I'm no expert for it, but this book honestly did not do me justice. It broke my perceptions on what a great series is. I cant read other series and not compare it with Malazan. Perhaps I love the fact that it is written in a historical, documentary type of manner but the characters in it... my gosh, I adore almost all of them. From the Bridgeburners, to the Claw, to the Tiste Andii, to the Shore, to the Grey Shields, to the K'Chain Che'malle... each race is different yet familiar. Each place in this epic tale evokes a sense of home but yet exotic in a way. I literally cried at the deaths and shouted with glee at the victories that they achieved. I laughed at quips and quirks of the characters, knowing that Erikson has fully embraced his DnD, military and anthropology background to weave this grand series.
That's why I love it, it's an emotional roller coaster and how Erikson manages to engage his characters that are superheroes but yet still...human.
👆 this one gets it! It’s crazy how high fantasy with warrens, gods, dragons, etc can feel like more real emotions than anything else! Thanks so much for the amazing comments!
Never thought anything would be as good as the Wheel of Time. I was wrong.
Right?!?! Thanks for watching!
I guess I'll give it a try I've been itching to read something after recently finishing the wheel of time. Remember the wheel turns as the whe oh wrong book yeah I think I'll read this to get "nynaeve tugging her hair" off the top of my head. I can't wait to get even more depressed than I am from finishing the wheel of time. Did I mention I finished the wheel of time? Anyways great review *sigh* I'm legitemaly depressed 😭
Perfect thing to read after wheel of time!!
I read this after wheel of time and it’s the perfect progression!
No way Tavore is a truly good person (remember Felisin?). But great video. Almost done Reaper’s Gale and yeah Malazan is really something special.
You still have a few books to go, but her motives become less opaque soon. Thanks so much for watching!! 👍🙏👊
That artwork looks fire as hell epic shit!!’🔥🔥🔥👀👀👀
Kinda sounds if Lord of the Rings and Star Wars had baby it would be Malazan!! 🤔🤔
Currently reading Malazan (just finished Bonehunters last night!), and I have to agree that my favorite thing about the series so far is the cast diversity and how the world is so egalitarian. Race, gender, sexual orientation; these things are literally the least important factors in how people are viewed. It's really amazing!
For realz! I love how there’s still a ton of resentment and infighting and conflict, it just isn’t for the petty things we obsess over here!
great video!
Thank you! 🙏
Okay man I've been reading all my life I only started reading fantasy about 8 years ago for some reason it just never caught my eye then I had a friend tell me about a book called the Wizard's First Rule so I checked it out and it been reading fantasy ever since now I have heard so many good things about the Malazan series but everybody says that getting through book 1 super hard so I guess this is what keeps putting me off to it but I really want to read this series so when I start reading it if I start having problems do you think you would help out some maybe keep me moving on since you love this series so much I thought maybe I would ask someone
Печально,что про Малазанскую книгу павших знает так мало народу.Эриксон создал подлинный шедевр.Интересно тебя послушать,продолжай дальше.Спасибо.
Thanks for watching!
I just got this translated for me and just wanted to say thanks so much. I couldn't agree more and hopefully these videos will convince people to take advantage of this stunning work that's already finished and ready for them to enjoy! Спасибо, мой друг
I’m only 16 years old. I’m afraid that I’m too dumb to understand it. Would you say that I’m too young to understand?
I don't think so. You might not pick up on every one of the little themes and underlying things he's trying to discuss, but who are we kidding--neither do most of the adults. If you're ok with super mature topics, then I don't think you need to be a brainiac to enjoy!
This video simply refuses to load for me.
I’m a big wheel of time fan and thinking of starting this series, how would you compare the two?
Less hair tugging and sniffs. Think of the books like the MCU. Different characters and contitents will be introduced over the first few book that all converge later
I remember personally thinking, that I wouldn’t like anything more than WOT. Malazan for me had been far better.
I liked WoT but wasn’t totally head over heels for it. Malazan was a real eye opener and keeps me coming back!
Im getting super excited for these books but I’m so scared that they’re hard to read? Since English is my second language I read it slower.
Just keep an online dictionary app and you will be fine I find it difficult too since English is not my native language
Based upon your English writing here, you’re going to be fine!
Do think when someone mentioned the most subtle players they meant Anomander and Tehol?
Ya, probably... or Hood or Bugg.., those dudes were playing the loooooooong game! K’rul?
Shadowthrone, Cotillion, Quick Ben, Iskaral Pust.. lots of options to see subtle players at work.
Rob Paul agreed!! 🙏 thanks so much for watching!!
@@IskarJarak
I love Malazan and your handling of and enthusiasm for it, keep m coming 🍻👍
Rob Paul awesome, I really appreciate it!!
Quit the series after first 2 books because it failed to pull me in. I thought character development sucked. Maybe it gets better later but I ran out of patience. I think that those who like event driven series may like it, but those who want character development may dislike Malazan. Since the characters were like cardboard cutouts with names and ranks I just didn't care what happened to any of them. Also I might add I read Malazan right after reading all ASOIAF by GRRM so I noticed the great gap with character building.
That's totally fair, and I think it's definitely a case where it isn't for everyone! I actually think there's great character work in Malazan, it just isn't there as exposition on a page or external dialogue (or even internal monologue), it's kinda there to infer, which can make it seem more slow and ponderous. I might give Memories of Ice a try. It's the most similar to a traditional fantasy book with a conflict, a climax, and a resolution and it also goes back to the characters from the first book that you know instead of having a whole new cast of characters. In any event, I can totally appreciate your opinion and tank you for watching the video and leaving a comment. I'm still going to hold out hope that we can rope you back in one of these days! ;)
"Iskaral Pust is constantly talking to himself." Surely you mean people are just always capable of reading his mind ;)
Oops, that was an obvious typo 🤪
📙💯
🙏❤️
WITNESS!!!
Hey all malazfan soldiers gt Temper here apologies I can't be paying member now.just lost home and sooo many wonderful novels including all my give away second hand malaz books I kept to gift fire took it all along with my wonderful dog Kiska luckily my girl and 2dogs and cat survived so all important saved bar 1.u r gr8 community I'll be back cheers ya'll Kia Kaha te Aroha Nui.GT Temper
Dude, don’t even worry about it! Send me an email and let me know if there’s anything I can do to help out!! I can PayPal you back all your $$ and a little bit more too. Are you in New Zealand? I sincerely hope you can bounce back and am thinking good thoughts for you and your family!!! 💪🙏❤️
@@IskarJarak thanku bird that steals we are in NZ yep and appreciate the offer but we'll be okay.jusy wanted to say thanks and I'll be back later hopefully after reading the jhistal and karsa books.talk again in the future.cheers
If I absolutely didn’t like the wheel of time, will I like Malazan series?
I’m not sure what you like but Malazan is very different to WoT. Much more grown up and deep.
Damn thats actually interesting, the fact that nobody questions other people's sexuality, gender, race and whatnot. It seems fresh
It is one of my favorite aspects of the world. Very egalitarian! Sorry it took me so long to respond-I went off on vacation for a bit!
@@IskarJarak no problem!! it really seems like an interesting aspect of the world. Thanks!
I don't get the last point about equality / diversity. Why is it a plus that people in a fantasy world don't care if someone is gay or a woman?
Haven't read the books, but afaik it's about one important empire and other nations over the stretch of thousands of years. So I would assume that there would be sexists and people that hate gays at least in some parts of a medieval like (?) fantasy world 🤔
Adaptation: Anime or live action. I vote Anime.
I think it could be amazing animated if it was done right. IMO, they’d have to do some pretty big changes to do a live action, but I think it could be done well too. People would probably get pissed though...