Night Of Knives: (Malazan Empire: 1): a wonderfully gripping, evocative and visceral epic fantasy

Ian C Esslemont

Dec 2010 · Malazan Empire Book 1 · Random House

About this ebook

This incredibly atmospheric and action - packed epic fantasy from million copy seller Ian C Esslemont is a must read for fans of Steven Erikson, David Gemmell and Brandon Sanderson.

"Visceral power...telling a story set largely over just one terrifying night, it pulverises you with an economy that is rare in fantasy" - SFX
"Fast paced storytelling...an enjoyable balance" - SFFworld
"A pleasing...entertaining romp" - DeathRay
"Absolutely outstanding" -- ***** Reader review
"Fast paced and a compelling read" -- ***** Reader review
"Brilliant. Couldn't put it down" -- ***** Reader review

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THE ONE NIGHT THAT WILL CHANGE THINGS FOREVER

Malaz gave a great empire its name, but now this island and its city amount to little more than a sleepy backwater.
Until this night.

Because this night there is to be a convergence, the once-in-a-generation appearance of a Shadow Moon - an occasion that threatens the good people of Malaz with demon hounds and other, darker things.

It is also prophesied that the Emperor Kellanved will return this night, and there are many who would prevent that happening at any cost. As factions within the Empire draw up battle lines, an ancient presence begins its all-out assault upon the island. Witnesses to these cataclysmic events include a thief called Kiska, and Temper, a war-weary veteran.

Although they do not know it, they each have a part to play in a confrontation that will determine not only the fate of Malaz City but also of the world beyond...


The Malazan Empire series continues in Return of the Crimson Guard...

Ratings and reviews

Got to admit this was not my favorite of novels that come from the Malazan Empire. It's well written and all, but I can't help feeling that some thing is missing. Which is why I score it as Ok. Still will look forward to the next book of Malazan Empire.

why is this sold as a separate book than the "night of knives" from the novels of the Malazan empire series. its the same book and realizing now thats its the same I just spent 11$ on a book I already have in my Google library.

I liked this book the pace is much better than some of Erickson's stuff. I that said this book is enjoyable because I read the whole series. The crippled God left me a bit disappointed so this is right up my alley.

About the author

Born in Winnipeg in 1962, IAN CAMERON ESSLEMONT has studied and worked as an archaeologist, travelled extensively in South East Asia and lived in Thailand and Japan for several years. He now lives in Fairbanks, Alaska, with his wife and children. His novels - beginning with Night of Knives - are all set in the fantasy world of Malaz that he co-created with Steven Erikson. Dancer's Lament was the first book in the 'Paths to Ascendancy' sequence (which continues the story of the turbulent early history of this epic imagined world) while Forge of the High Mage is the fourth.
To find out more, visit www.ian-esslemont.com and www.malazanempire.com