The Bonehunters
"The Bonehunters" is the sixth book in Steven Erikson’s Malazan Book of the Fallen series, and it continues the sprawling, epic tale of the Malazan Empire’s military campaigns, personal struggles, and the forces that drive the world’s conflicts. Picking up after the events of "Midnight Tides", this novel follows multiple characters and storylines, including the continuing saga of the Malazan military, the Bridgeburners, and the return of important figures like Whiskeyjack, Fiddler, and the enigmatic Tavore Paran.
The primary focus of the novel is the Malazan Empire’s attempt to solidify control over the rebellious continent of Seven Cities. The titular “Bonehunters” are the remnants of the Malazan forces, fractured and scarred after numerous battles, who are tasked with hunting down the remnants of the rebel army and suppressing the ongoing insurrection. Meanwhile, the gods, ascendants, and the chaos of the empire’s crumbling structure loom large, as personal vendettas, betrayal, and old alliances come into play.
We also get a deeper look into the lives of several pivotal characters, including the weary and battle-hardened leaders of the Malazan forces and their personal journeys, as well as the constant struggle of power between the ascendants, gods, and mortals.
"The Bonehunters" is an intricate and ambitious installment in the Malazan Book of the Fallen series. As the penultimate book in the series, it drives forward several ongoing plotlines while introducing new, compelling threads that set the stage for the eventual resolution. Here’s what makes "The Bonehunters" both engaging and challenging:
Erikson continues to build upon the vast, intricate world of Malazan, offering readers a richer exploration of the empire’s struggles and the complex dynamics between the gods, ascendants, and the mortal realm. The political landscape remains volatile, with both the empire and the rebels constantly shifting allegiances. The action unfolds across varied settings, from vast desert landscapes to the bustling cities that represent the heart of the empire. Erikson’s world-building is once again one of the book’s strongest features, with deep cultural, historical, and religious layers that elevate the stakes.
One of the hallmarks of the Malazan series is the depth and complexity of its characters, and The Bonehunters is no exception. Long-time characters like Fiddler, Whiskeyjack, and the mysterious Tavore Paran continue to evolve, revealing more about their motivations, pasts, and internal struggles. Tavore’s journey as the harsh, enigmatic leader of the Malazan forces is especially gripping as she faces the consequences of her decisions and the pressures of leadership. Additionally, new characters are introduced, each with their own personal arcs that weave into the larger story. Despite the novel’s immense scope, Erikson never loses sight of the characters’ humanity, and the emotional stakes of their journeys are consistently felt.
"The Bonehunters" continues to explore themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and the burdens of leadership. The characters grapple with the consequences of war, including the toll it takes on their bodies and minds. Erikson doesn’t shy away from showing the brutal realities of military life and the weight of responsibility that comes with being a leader in such a fractured world. The relationships between soldiers and commanders, friends and enemies, are complicated and often tragic, underscoring the human cost of war.
The action in "The Bonehunters" is intense and well-executed, with the Malazan military engaging in brutal campaigns against the rebels. The stakes are high, with life-and-death consequences for the characters, and the battle scenes are vivid and emotionally charged. However, as with previous books in the series, the plot can feel sprawling and occasionally meandering. With numerous storylines, character arcs, and complex political maneuvering, it requires careful attention from the reader to fully appreciate the intricacies of the narrative. That said, the payoff is substantial, and the novel builds toward a series of tense and dramatic moments that will leave fans eager for the conclusion.
Erikson’s prose remains as dense and thought-provoking as ever. His writing often shifts between deep philosophical insights and raw emotional moments, which can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. The book’s complexity requires patience, and readers who are unfamiliar with Erikson’s style may find the story difficult to follow at times. However, for those who are willing to put in the effort, The Bonehunters offers a rich, immersive experience.
"The Bonehunters" is highly recommended for fans of the Malazan Book of the Fallen series, particularly those who have followed the characters and conflicts from the beginning. The book deepens the reader’s investment in the ongoing struggle of the Malazan Empire, its forces, and the gods that shape their destinies. It is an essential read for those looking to continue the story of the Bridgeburners and Tavore Paran, and for those eager to explore more of Erikson’s complex world-building and philosophical themes.
For new readers, "The Bonehunters" is not an ideal starting point. The plot assumes familiarity with the previous books in the series, and it’s crucial to have read "Gardens of the Moon", "Deadhouse Gates", "Memories of Ice", and "Midnight Tides" in order to fully appreciate the characters and the stakes at play.
If you are a fan of epic fantasy that combines intricate world-building, rich character development, and a deep exploration of the costs of war, The Bonehunters is a book you won’t want to miss. It is a challenging but rewarding installment that will keep readers on the edge of their seats as they move toward the series’ climactic conclusion.