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Malazan Book of the Fallen Reading Order: The Ultimate Guide
Written by:TheLitPerspective
The Malazan Book of the Fallen series by Steven Erikson is one of the most epic and complex fantasy sagas ever written. With a vast world, intricate plots, and a massive cast of characters, figuring out the best Malazan Book of the Fallen reading order can be daunting for new readers.
This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the series in the most rewarding way, whether you prefer a chronological, publication, or thematic approach. We’ll also explore related works, spin-offs, and essential tips to enhance your reading experience.
Why the Malazan Book of the Fallen Reading Order Matters
The Malazan series isn’t a linear narrative—it spans continents, timelines, and perspectives. Choosing the right Malazan Book of the Fallen reading order can make the difference between confusion and immersion.
Key Challenges for New Readers:
- Non-linear storytelling – Events jump between time periods and locations.
- Large cast of characters – Hundreds of characters with deep backstories.
- Complex magic systems – Warrens, Ascendants, and gods play major roles.
- Interconnected spin-offs – Novels by Ian C. Esslemont expand the universe.
To avoid frustration, selecting an optimal reading sequence is crucial.
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Malazan Book of the Fallen Reading Order: 3 Recommended Approaches
1. Publication Order (The Most Popular Choice)
The standard Malazan Book of the Fallen reading order follows the original release sequence. This is the best way for first-time readers to experience the series as Erikson intended.
1. Gardens of the Moon (1999)
2. Deadhouse Gates (2000)
3. Memories of Ice (2001)
4. House of Chains (2002)
5. Midnight Tides (2004)
6. The Bonehunters (2006)
7. Reaper’s Gale (2007)
8. Toll the Hounds (2008)
9. Dust of Dreams (2009)
10. The Crippled God (2011)
Pros:
- Maintains narrative coherence.
- Introduces concepts gradually.
- Builds suspense effectively.
Cons:
- Some timeline jumps may feel abrupt.
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2. Chronological Order (For a Linear Experience)
For those who prefer a timeline-based Malazan Book of the Fallen reading order, here’s an approximate sequence:
- Forge of Darkness (Kharkanas Trilogy – Prequel)
- Fall of Light (Kharkanas Trilogy – Prequel)
- Dancer’s Lament (Path to Ascendancy – Prequel)
- Deadhouse Landing (Path to Ascendancy – Prequel)
- Kellanved’s Reach (Path to Ascendancy – Prequel)
- Gardens of the Moon (Main Series)
- Deadhouse Gates
- Memories of Ice
- Midnight Tides (Takes place before House of Chains)
- House of Chains
- The Bonehunters
- Reaper’s Gale
- Toll the Hounds
- Dust of Dreams
- The Crippled God
Pros:
- Events unfold in a more linear fashion.
- Better understanding of early lore.
Cons:
- Prequels assume familiarity with the main series.
- Disrupts Erikson’s intended pacing.
Read also: Wereworld Book Series in Order
3. Thematic / Expanded Reading Order (Including Spin-Offs)
For die-hard fans, integrating Ian C. Esslemont’s Novels of the Malazan Empire and other works provides a fuller experience.
- Gardens of the Moon
- Deadhouse Gates
- Memories of Ice
- House of Chains
- Midnight Tides
- Night of Knives (Esslemont)
- The Bonehunters
- Return of the Crimson Guard (Esslemont)
- Reaper’s Gale
- Stonewielder (Esslemont)
- Toll the Hounds
- Orb Sceptre Throne (Esslemont)
- Dust of Dreams
- The Crippled God
- Blood and Bone (Esslemont)
- Assail (Esslemont)
Pros:
- Expands the Malazan world significantly.
- Fills in gaps between main books.
Cons:
- Requires commitment to a much longer reading list.
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Tips for Navigating the Malazan Book of the Fallen Series
1. Embrace the Confusion (At First)
Erikson drops readers into the deep end—expect to feel lost initially. Trust that things will gradually make sense.
2. Use Online Resources
- Malazan Wiki (for character & lore references)
- Tor.com’s Malazan Reread (chapter summaries & analysis)
3. Take Notes
Keeping track of factions, warrens, and key events helps.
4. Consider Audiobooks
The narration can help with pronunciation and immersion.
Read also: Pillars of the Earth Book Series
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Should I read the Malazan books in order of publication?
Yes, for first-time readers, publication order is strongly recommended.
Are Ian C. Esslemont’s books necessary?
Not strictly, but they enrich the world. Read them after the main series or in the expanded order.
Why is Midnight Tides so different?
It introduces a new continent and characters but ties back into the larger narrative later.
How difficult is Malazan compared to other fantasy series?
More complex than A Song of Ice and Fire or The Wheel of Time due to its depth and scope.
Can I skip Gardens of the Moon?
No—it sets up critical plot points, even if it’s the most challenging entry.
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Final Thoughts: Choosing Your Malazan Book of the Fallen Reading Order
There’s no single “correct” way to read Malazan, but the publication order remains the best starting point. Once you’re hooked, revisiting the series in chronological or expanded order can offer new insights.
Ready to Dive In?
Pick up Gardens of the Moon and prepare for an unforgettable journey. Whether you follow the core ten books or explore the entire expanded universe, the Malazan Book of the Fallen reading order you choose will shape your experience.
Which order will you try? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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