Synopses & Reviews
It gave the Empire its name, but the tiny island and city of Malaz is now a sleepy, seedy backwater port. However, this night things are a little different. This night its residents are bustling about, barring doors and shuttering windows. Because this night a once-in-a-generation Shadow Moon is due and threatens the good citizens of Malaz with demon hounds and other, darker, beings…
And it was also prophesied that on this night the Emperor Kellanved, missing for all these years, would return. As factions within the greater Empire battle over the imperial throne, the Shadow Moon summons a far more alien and ancient presence for an all-out assault upon the island. Indeed, the cataclysmic events that happen this night will determine the fate of the Malaz and of the entire world beyond.
From the Trade Paperback edition.
Synopsis
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...
About the Author
Ian Cameron Esslemont was born in 1962 in Winnipeg and now lives in Alaska with his family. He is currently completing a Ph.D in Literature and writing a second novel set in the world of Malaz.
From the Trade Paperback edition.