The Malazan Books Ranking is a massive, complex, and often challenging epic novel. Erikson’s writing, character development, and thematic exploration shine the brightest providing depth and variety, expanding the world in compelling ways. Steven Erikson‘s Malazan Book of the Fallen series is top notch, considering factors like character development, plot complexity, thematic depth, writing style etc. If you like to read fantasy books, you can checkout Born of Blood and Ash.
About the Author:
Steven Erikson is the pseudo name of Steve Rune Lundin, a novelist and author based in Canada. His most famous novel is the series, The Malazan Book of the Fallen.
The Malazan Book Series Ranked
Table of Contents
1. Reaper’s Gale (Book 7)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐5/5
Reaper’s Gale is where Erikson shows his mastery of character arcs. The novel brings together several main storylines from previous books, offering significant growth and depth to key characters like Icarium, Karsa Orlong, and Tehol Beddict. Even a new character, who appears for only a few pages, leaves a lasting impact. The converging of multiple arcs (from Genabackis, Seven Cities, and Lether) leads to a highly complicated yet satisfying plot.
This book’s story revolves around the concept of resistance, oppression, and the cyclical nature of violence. It explores the consequences of power in all its forms, from tyrannical empires to the personal demons of the characters. Erikson’s prose is both poetic and precise, capturing the dark humor and existential dread that permeate the series. His descriptions of battle and the inner lives of his characters are at their peak here.
Excerpt:
“Mauled and now cut adrift by the Malazan Empire, Tavore and her 14th army have landed on the coast of a strange, unknown land and they find themselves facing an even more dangerous the Tiste Edur, a nightmarish empire pledged to the Crippled God.”
2. Memories of Ice (Book 3)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐4.8/5
This book brings back many beloved characters from Gardens of the Moon and further develops them, particularly Ganoes Paran, Anomander Rake, and Itkovian. It also introduces new characters which fans just love, like Gruntle and the Grey Swords, whose arcs are heartbreaking. The story focusses on the fight against the Pannion Domin, with intense battle narration and shifting alliances that drive the story ahead. While the story is complex, it remains cohesive and emotionally engaging.
Erikson’s style here is nice but effective, particularly in battle sequences like the Siege of Capustan. However, it may feel slightly overwhelming to some readers due to the heavy emootion and complex narrative. Its a fan favorite for its epic action and emotional depth, Memories of Ice is considered one of the best books in the series.
Excerpt:
“The ravaged continent of Genabackis is a horrifying new empire, the Pannion Domin, that devours all. An irritating allliance resists: Onearm’s army, Whiskeyjack’s Bridgeburners and former enemies – forces of Caladan Brood, Anomander Rake and his Tiste Andii mages, and the Rhivi people of the plains.”
3. The Bonehunters (Book 6)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5/5
The book develops complex characters like Tavore Paran, Fiddler, and Quick Ben, while introducing new and memorable ones like Sergeant Hellian. The inner conflicts of the characters are portrayed with great details.
With its unusual structure storytelling – featuring two climaxes—The Bonehunters keeps readers on edge. The politics and battles are both intricate and satisfying. Erikson balances action-packed sequences with introspective moments, maintaining a gripping narrative throughout. A thrilling entry that successfully balances multiple storylines, delivering one of the most action-packed and emotionally engaging books in the series.
Excerpt:
“The Seven Cities Rebellion has been crushed. Sha’ik is dead. One last rebel army remains, holed up in the city of Y’Ghatan and under the fanatical command of Leoman of the Flails.”
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4. Midnight Tides (Book 5)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐4.2/5
The book introduces a new cast, focusing on the Tiste Edur and the Letherii. Characters like Trull Sengar and Tehol Beddict are well-developed and become fan favorites, though the new setting might feel jarring to some readers.
The plot, while somewhat self-contained, is complicated and filled with political intrigue, betrayal, and unexpected twists. It sets the stage for future conflicts in the series.
The themes of colonialism, greed, and cultural war are explored in a good manner, making this a thought-provoking entry. Erikson’s humor shines here, balancing the darker themes with lighter moments, though the shift in setting and new characters might slow down some readers. A refreshing change of pace that deepens the world-building and sets up important plot points for future books.
Excerpt:
“After decades of warfare, the five tribes of the Tiste Edur are united under the rule of the Warlock King of the Hiroth. But the price of peace is a pact with a hidden power whose motives may be deadly.”
5. Deadhouse Gates (Book 2)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐4.6/5
The novel introduces a new story and cast, with Coltaine’s arc in the Chain of Dogs being one of the series’ most memorable. Characters like Felisin, Kalam, and Duiker undergo significant development, often through harrowing experiences.
The book’s narrative follows multiple storylines that eventually converge. The pacing is relentless, and the stakes are high throughout. The idea of survival, sacrifice, and the brutal realities of war are masterfully handled. Coltaine’s leadership and the suffering of the refugees add emotional weight to the narrative.
Erikson’s narration can be challenging, especially for new readers, but it is undeniably powerful. The depiction of the Chain of Dogs is particularly gripping. A standout entry known for its intense emotional impact and exploration of human endurance and leadership under dire circumstances.
Excerpt:
“In the vast dominion of Seven Cities, in the Holy Desert Raraku, the Sha’ik and her followers prepare for the long-prophesied uprising – Whirlwind..”
6. The Crippled God (Book 10)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐4.4/5
This final book provides closure to many character arcs, offering satisfying resolutions for figures like Tavore, Ganoes Paran, and Icarium. The characters’ growth and evolution are highlighted effectively.
The book ties together numerous storyline from the series, delivering a climactic conclusion that balances both large-scale battles and intimate character moments.
Ideas of sacrifice, redemption, and the consequences of conflict are drawn throughout, bringing the series to a rich and emotionally resonant end. Erikson’s prose is at its most polished, though the density of the narrative might feel overwhelming to some readers. A satisfying conclusion to the series that rewards readers who have invested in Erikson’s expansive world and complex characters.
Excerpt:
“The Bonehunters walk for Kolanse, led by Adjunct Tavore. This woman with no gifts of magic, deemed plain, displaying nothing to instill loyalty or confidence, will challenge the gods – if her own mutinous troops don’t kill her first.”
7. House of Chains (Book 4)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐4.1/5
The book spends significant amount of time on Karsa Orlong’s journey from a brutal warrior to a more complex character. The focus on his transformation is compelling, though the shift back to multiple POVs later in the book can feel uneven.
While the first half of the book is focused on Karsa’s journey, the latter half returns to the broader conflicts involving the Malazan Empire. The split structure may feel jarring to some readers.
The prose is effective, especially in Karsa’s solo journey, but the transition to the wider narrative can feel abrupt. A polarizing entry that is nevertheless important for its deep dive into a key character and its impact on the larger narrative.
Excerpt:
“In Northern Genabackis, a raiding party of savage tribal warriors descends from the mountains into the southern flatlands.”
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8. Dust of Dreams (Book 9)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ 3.8/5
The book continues to develop existing characters but is more focused on setting up the finale. Some new characters are introduced, but they lack the depth of earlier entries. As the first part of what was meant to be a single final book, it feels incomplete on its own. The pacing is slower, and it lacks a strong standalone arc.
Themes of despair, loss, and the consequences of past actions are prevalent, setting the stage for the conclusion. The writing is solid, but the pacing and structure might frustrate readers looking for resolution. A setup book that lays the groundwork for the final entry but is less satisfying when read in isolation.
Excerpt:
“In Letherii, the exiled Malazan army commanded by Adjunct Tavore begins its march into the eastern Wastelands, to fight for an unknown cause against an enemy it has never seen.”
9. Toll the Hounds (Book 8)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐4/5
Revisiting characters from earlier books allows for meaningful development, but the pacing can feel slow in parts. The narrative of this book, is rather introspective and philosophical and may not appeal. The plot is less focused on immediate conflict and more on setting the stage for the finale, which may feel meandering to some.
Story revolves around death, grief, and the cyclical nature of existence are explored deeply, with some of Erikson’s most philosophical writing. The stylistic choices, including extensive internal monologues and reflective passages, can be challenging and slow the pacing. A divisive entry that offers deep thematic exploration and character introspection, but is less action-oriented.
Excerpt:
“In Darujhistan, the city of blue fire, it is said that love and death shall arrive dancing. It is summer and the heat is oppressive, but for the small round man in the faded red waistcoat, discomfiture is not just because of the sun.”
10. Gardens of the Moon (Book 1)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐3.5/5
While it introduces key characters like Ganoes Paran, Anomander Rake, and Whiskeyjack, the development is uneven due to the sheer number of characters and complex narrative structure. The plot is intricate, with multiple storylines converging, but can be confusing for first-time readers. The world-building is dense, and some details are retconned in later books.
Storyline of power, ambition, and survival are present. Erikson’s style is challenging, with a steep learning curve for new readers due to its non-linear narrative and minimal exposition. A solid start that lays the foundation for the series, but its complexity and lack of accessibility make it the weakest entry.
Excerpt:
“Vast legions of gods, mages, humans, dragons and all manner of creatures play out the fate of the Malazan Empire in this first book in a major epic fantasy series from Steven Erikson.”
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