Return of the Crimson Guard A Novel of the Malazan Empire

by Esslemont, Ian C.

• ISBN13: 9780765323729
• ISBN10: 0765323729
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2010-04-13
• Publisher: Tor Books

Summary

Casting thrilling new light onto an extraordinary creation, this is the second epic fantasy novel from the co-creator of the Steven Erikson world of Malaz. The return of the mercenary company the Crimson Guard could not have come at a worse time for the Malazan Empire. Driven by constant warfare, weakened by betrayal and rivalries, many see the grip of Empress Laseen beginning to weaken as conquered kingdoms and principalities test their old independence. Into this gathering civil war on Quon Tali, the Empire'Äôs homeland comes the Guard. And with their return comes the memory of their hundred-year-old vow 'Äî undying opposition to the existence of the Empire. Yet rivalries and betrayals stalk the Guard as well; elements of its elite, the Avowed, scheme to open paths to even greater power, and ancient potent entities, Ascendants, also lend a hand exploiting all sides to further their own arcane ends. Meanwhile, a swordsman, Traveller, and his companion Ereko, move from one strange encounter to another in a mysterious dance meant ultimately to bring the swordsman to a final confrontation from which none has ever returned. As the Crimson Guard gathers from around the globe, Empress Laseen faces a more immediate threat from the generals and old commanders of her predecessor, Emperor Kellanved, who have lost patience with what they see as Laseen'Äôs mismanagement. Yet there are hints that Laseen may be using the uprisings to draw out and finally eliminate these last irksome survivors of her predecessor'Äôs rule. From the Trade Paperback edition.

Author Biography

IAN CAMERON ESSLEMONT grew up in Winnipeg, Manitoba. He has studied archaeology and creative writing, has traveled extensively in South-East Asia, and lived in Thailand and Japan for several years. He now lives in Alaska with his wife and children and is currently working on another novel set in the world of Malaz, a world he co-created with his friend Steven Erikson.

Table of Contents

"Riveting sequel to 2009’s Night of Knives."

--Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)

 

"One can become enthralled with a well-created universe replete with epic heroes, battles and a fascinating mosaic view of the struggles of a world-encompassing empire."

--RT Book Reviews