Ian C. Esslemont writes fantasy fiction set in the Malazan world. He is the author of books including Night of Knives, Orb Sceptre Throne, Blood and Bone, and Dancer's Lament.
Return of the Crimson Guard
Return of the Crimson Guard
Synopsis
Return of the Crimson Guard is the second novel in Ian C. Esslemont's sequence set in the world of the Malazan Book of the Fallen, the epic fantasy setting he co-created with Steven Erikson. Following Night of Knives, it widens the lens from a single night to a continent-spanning conflict on Quon Tali, where the Malazan Empire is stretched to breaking point.
The exiled mercenary company called the Crimson Guard returns to fulfil a vow sworn generations earlier, at the very moment Empress Laseen is beset by provincial revolt and the ambitions of her own generals. Told through many viewpoints, from common soldiers to immortal ascendants, the novel braids battlefield set pieces with court conspiracy.
Dense, sprawling, and morally grey, it rewards readers already familiar with the wider Malazan mythos while advancing the fate of the Empire and the Guard toward a decisive confrontation.
Vibe
Genres
Characters
KyleProtagonist
A young plainsman warrior far from home who is drawn into the ranks of the Crimson Guard.
Empress LaseenSupporting
Ruler of the Malazan Empire, contending with rebellion, betrayal within her command, and the return of the Crimson Guard.
K'azz D'AvoreSupporting
Duke and commander of the Crimson Guard, bound with his followers by an ancient vow against the Empire.
GhelelSupporting
A young noblewoman positioned as a claimant amid the civil unrest on Quon Tali.
