Gardens of the Moon by Steven Erikson garners praise for its intricate world-building and complex plot, but some readers find it challenging due to its dense narrative and steep learning curve. Fans appreciate the mature themes and depth of characters, while critics mention a lack of accessibility for newcomers to the fantasy genre. Overall, it's a polarizing yet richly detailed epic.

A reader who would enjoy Steven Erikson's Gardens of the Moon is likely a fan of complex, richly detailed epic fantasy series. Comparable to George R.R. Martin's A Game of Thrones and Robert Jordan's The Eye of the World, this book appeals to those who appreciate intricate plots, deep lore, and multifaceted characters.

Gardens of the Moon, the first installment in Steven Erikson's Malazan Book of the Fallen series, follows multiple characters as they navigate an expanding empire, ancient magic, and intricate political conflicts. Empress Laseen's coup and subsequent efforts to quell rebellion intersect with the manipulations of gods, mages, and soldiers, leading to a climactic confrontation in the city of Darujhistan.

Mysterious / Dark / Gritty / Suspenseful / Challenging

- Gardens of the Moon was initially completed in 1991 but wasn't published until 1999, as it faced numerous rejections before finding a publisher.
- Steven Erikson, who is also an archeologist, drew upon his background in anthropology and archeology to create the expansive world and cultures in the Malazan Book of the Fallen series.

**Captain Ganoes Paran**  
A noble-born young man who becomes a soldier and experiences a journey of self-discovery, grappling with themes of loyalty and integrity. He emerges as a charismatic leader with shifting loyalties as he forms new alliances.

**Tattersail**  
A sorceress serving with the armed forces, known for her skill in reading the Deck of Dragons and her involvement with battle magic. Her connection with Paran impacts his character arc significantly.

**Adjunct Lorn**  
A high-ranking agent of Empress Laseen representing the empire's methods of conquest. She is characterized by her use of a magic-deadening sword and her internal conflict between duty and emotion.

**Sorry/Apsalar**  
A young woman possessed by Cotillion who becomes an unnerving recruit with expert fighting abilities. After being freed from possession, she grapples with fragmented memories of her past actions.

**Sergeant Whiskeyjack**  
The leader of the elite squad known as the Bridgeburners, characterized by his dedication to his troops and his strategic mind. He is a seasoned warrior whose loyalty is central to his character.

**Quick Ben**  
A mage from the Bridgeburners with access to multiple Warrens, demonstrating considerable magical power and cleverness. He plays a key role in bringing the squad's plans to fruition.

**Kalam**  
A former Claw assassin and member of the Bridgeburners, known for his close friendship with Quick Ben. He is a skilled operative who supports the squad's efforts through his expertise.

**Kruppe**  
A member of the Phoenix Inn crew, known for his jester-like persona and prophetic magic that manifests in dreams. His unique way of speaking and role as a master spy add complexity to his character.

**Crokus**  
A young man from the Phoenix Inn crew, known for his involvement in the city's criminal element and possession of Oponn’s coin. His actions are propelled by youthful desires and luck.

**Rallick**  
A member of the Phoenix Inn crew and the Darujhistan assassins’ guild, characterized by his suave appearance and subtle killing skills. He is motivated by loyalty to his friend Coll.

Steven Erikson

Adult

Novel

Malazan Book of the Fallen

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Gardens of the Moon reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Gardens of the Moon | SuperSummary

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Overview

Get ready to explore Gardens of the Moon and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Gardens of the Moon Summary

Background

Gardens of the Moon Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Book 1: “Pale”

Prologue-Book 1

Gardens of the Moon Prologue-Book 1 Summary & Analysis

Book 2: “Darujhistan”

Book 2

Gardens of the Moon Book 2 Summary & Analysis

Book 3: “The Mission”

Book 3

Gardens of the Moon Book 3 Summary & Analysis

Book 4: “Assassins”

Book 4

Gardens of the Moon Book 4 Summary & Analysis

Book 5: “The Gadrobi Hills”

Book 5

Gardens of the Moon Book 5 Summary & Analysis

Book 6: “The City of Blue Fire”

Book 6

Gardens of the Moon Book 6 Summary & Analysis

Book 7: “The Fête”

Book 7-Epilogue 

Gardens of the Moon Book 7-Epilogue  Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Gardens of the Moon Character Analysis

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Themes

Gardens of the Moon Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Gardens of the Moon Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Gardens of the Moon Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Gardens of the Moon Essay Topics

Gardens of the Moon

Before You Read

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Gardens of the Moon?

Reading Age

Book Details