BOOK REVIEW: Deadhouse Gates by Steven Erikson

Despite having finished the book, I almost don't feel qualified to review Deadhouse Gates in any great detail. Such is the scope and complexity of this magnificent series. It will perhaps take multiple reads for me to truly comprehend and understand my love for it.

I already enjoyed the first book, Gardens of the Moon, but the second book has already come on leaps and bounds in terms of quality.

The story in Deadhouse Gates is more streamlined, succinct, and carries more emotional weight. Despite a new cast of characters - for the most part - I found myself engaged, and emotionally attached on the journeys Erikson took us on in this novel.

That is especially true for Coltaine and his chain of dogs. A truly masterful story of struggle and an unrelenting ambition to survive.

The climaxes across the board felt powerful and meaningful. There was enough tidbits given through lore and glimpses into old characters that set me up well for wanting to go on to read Memories of Ice as soon as I can. This world is fresh, exciting, and from book to book it has grown beautifully.

That isn't to say it's without flaws. Although Erikson has proven to be able to write action in fantastic scope, I am yet to see him write the nitty-gritty of the up-close-and-personal struggles of warfare. Furthermore, I found the story had pacing issues at times, particularly when one character in-particular was at sea.

Overall, this was an amazing journey and one I would happily recommend. If you didn't think Gardens of the Moon was for you then perhaps consider giving Deadhouse Gates a shot before giving up on the series.

Final score: 4.5/5