Steven Erikson - Reaper's Gale

Reaper's Gale is the seventh installment in Steven Erikson's Malazan Book of the Fallen series, known for its intricate plot and immense scale. This book merges the storylines of the Malazan 14th Army, led by Adjunct Tavore, with the narrative of the Letherii Empire, first introduced in Midnight Tides. The story unfolds in the Letherii Empire, where the immortal Emperor Rhulad Sengar's madness intensifies, fueling a reign of terror and internal conspiracies. Meanwhile, the Malazan forces, having landed on the continent, find themselves facing the overwhelming might of the Tiste Edur empire. Several powerful figures, including the warrior Karsa Orlong and the destructive Icarium Lifestealer, arrive to challenge the emperor. A parallel plot follows a band of fugitives, accompanied by the ancient Tiste Andii, Silchas Ruin, as ancient rivalries resurface. The book is praised for its emotional depth, brutal depiction of war, and powerful character moments, while exploring themes of empire, morality, and the consequences of power. It is a critical convergence point in the series, setting the stage for the final volumes.