Night of Knives by Ian C. Esslemont

This is the first book that is supplementary to the Malazan Book of the Fallen series. Readers who are already familiar with the mentioned series should by now be aware that the Malazan world was not created by Steven Erikson alone. The introduction in the book will explain that.

The book focused on two characters who are caught in the events that transpired on the Night of Shadows - or Shadow Moon.

Temper, a Malazan soldier, has been trying to live an uneventful life. The seemingly quiet and bored veteran however has a past that keeps haunting him. Meanwhile, somewhere in Malaz Island, his complete opposite Kiska stumbles upon an exciting discovery that will open up an opportunity for her to live the kind of life she wants.

Most readers who have read Erikson's books will be familiar with most of the gods and Ascendants mentioned here, as well as the Shadow Realm. One of the highlights of this book is Edgewalker's participation in the events. Part of his nature is revealed here - we know now that he is not human or Jaghut. We also have a good idea of what he looks like.

Part of the mystery of Kellanved and Dancer's ascendancy was revealed here, though readers can only draw mostly speculations as to what happened and how they did it. There was a scene in the book that readers might overlook showing only the aftermath of the encounter between Kellanved and Dancer and Laseen and her Claws. Readers might be wondering if Kellanved was killed but other than the evidences present in the throne room, there are no other clues. First-time readers who want their mysteries solved right away might find this frustrating. It's one of the things I like about the Malazan books though. They provide clues but leave some things unanswered that would force readers to speculate and theorize. If you're the type of reader who likes being spoonfed (and don't want to think for yourself), then this book and the series is not for you.

The Stormriders were also mentioned here several times and readers will now have an idea of what they look like. Their purpose for attacking a certain area however was not stated blatantly but there are hints in the book. Readers should also take note of the attempt of the Stormriders to get near Malaz Island.

Although Ian C. Esslemont's and Erikson's styles differ, the 'feel' of the book is the same. Fans of the series will find no major differences and will certainly have no problems adjusting.

One good thing about Esslemont is that he has better imagery than Erikson. He provides fairly good descriptions of the characters and the setting. Character descriptions however are sometimes repeated in another scene or in another character's point-of-view. It makes you wonder if he copied and pasted the descriptions. But still I enjoyed the book because of that. He was still able to keep the mystery of certain characters without having to sacrifice good imagery.

His actions scenes are better too. I can picture out what's going on in his scenes much easier than Erikson's.

This book has 6 chapters plus a prologue and epilogue. I recommend this to Malazan Book of the Fallen fans and even those who are not familiar with the series. Although most Malazan books are loaded with characters, concepts and mystery, this might serve as a good introduction. It is much easier to follow than Gardens of the Moon (the 1st book in the series) and it introduces two important characters, Kellanved and Dancer, who will play big roles in the 10-book series.

I'm giving this book a 9 out of 10 rating.