Assail by Ian C. Esslemont
In this final installment of the Novels of the Malazan Empire series, Ian C. Esslemont explores the semi-mythical land of Assail. Rumors of abundant gold deposits has attracted adventurers and fortune-seekers. Some of these however are not seeking wealth but have come to Assail for something else. The natives, besieged by the newcomers, could do nothing else but band together and temporarily forget their blood feuds to protect the land. The land of Assail is mostly unexplored and there are plenty of tales to scare some who have heard whispers of Elder monsters from which the name of the land must have been taken. The story is told from different points of view. The second in command Shimmer took it upon herself to force the K'azz and the rest of the Crimson Guard to undertake the journey. The bard Fisher Kel Tath finds his steps leading him home. While Kyle carries a sword called Whiteblade which attracts trouble wherever he goes. Orman, son of Bregin, is one of the lo...