Quote:
Originally Posted by Dazrin
I think the first book is one of the best in the genre. Unfortunately it bogged down a lot in the middle. Honestly, if you didn't know it was a series going in, the first book could be pretty much stand alone.
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The first book is very good, compared to many other fantasy books. But I think too, the second book is even better. Mainly because it is plot wise much more distinct from most other fantasy. While the first book is great in world building (as of course the whole series) the main plot is somewhat traditional.
Since the op plans to read the series step by step, I can say that the series is great for that. There are some greater plot lines, but nearly all books are very good on their own (an exception would be the last two books, which conclude the major plot line). Each book focus on an own subplot which is concluded in the book. You could also try to read them not in publication order some times. Would be interesting to see, how they feel if read in chronological order or reading book 3 before 2 (these two books cover the same time on different continents). Since each book works for itself, I never encountered the fatigue I had with the wheel of times (seriously, the pacing there is terrible. There are whole books, where nearly nothing happens. It has its strength but also many flaws).
So, have fun with the series and take your time. Seriously, too much Erikson can lead to cynism and fatalitism, but also to some sprinkles of hope
