Best of 2014

It's that time of the year... or not anymore. I know I'm a bit late, but better late than never.  I always posted a best list and even if 2014 wasn't my best reading year as far as the number of novels I finished are concerned, I thought it was still a good idea to share. My life changed a lot last year with the birth of my daughter, my second child, but as she reached one year old, I think that I have now managed to return to some of my hobbies, reading and blogging included.

Moreover, I really wanted to finish Joe Abercrombie's Half a King, which looked like a great contender. Alas, even if I think that it's a very good book (my review here), it was enough to make my list. Neither is Mark Lawrence with Prince of Fools, (my review here) another very good book. So even if I didn't manage to review as many books as usual, 2014 was still a good crop for Fantasy!!!

'Best' from the past ...(2013 / 2012 / 2011 / 2010 / 2009)

***

Best novel

Veil of the Deserters

Jeff Salyards

Veil of the Deserters is the second book in the Bloodsounder's Arc series by Jeff Salyards.  Two years ago, I named Jeff my favorite Fantasy debut of 2012 and he didn't disappoint me with the follow-up. That series explores many interesting themes in an original and imaginative setting. It's a blast!

Here's an extract of my review:

Next on the list is the "origin story" of Bloodsounder, Killcoin infamous weapon. In this case again, Arki is privy to detailed explanations granted by the need for his skills in deciphering old texts. The state of the world and the disappearance of the gods are even mixed in with this, finely expanding on the mythology, theology and geography (I'm looking at you the Godveil). Add to this the reason behind Emperor Cynead recall and you get a storytelling explosion. The last chapters are simply amazing.

What else is there to consider?  The author writing feels even more intuitive and competent while retaining the straightforward aspect and atmosphere we witnessed in Scourge, all for the greater benefit of the delivery of a first person perspective.  The descriptive aspect of it makes the world more vivid than most authors can achieve and the battles scenes could only be praised for a second time around. I was there even if it was not always easy to witness it. Simply a great story, with fascinating themes, meaningful characters and close combat action aplenty.

*

Runners-up for best novel

The Broken Eye

Brent Weeks

Brent Weeks' The Broken Eye is the third book in the Lightbringer series. With each new novel in this 4 books planned grand opus, Weeks story and more importantly his characters grow on me. With Brandon Sanderson's Stormlight Archive series, Weeks is at the head of the big fat Fantasy books of old evolution and it feels right at home on my shelves.

Here's an extract of my review:

When I finished The Blinding Knife, I knew that Weeks had four books planned for the series but it felt as if it was only the start of a long series spanning 10 or more volumes. And in the case of the Lightbringer series previous entry, it wasn't that the story was voluntarily extended, it's simply that no definitive endings were in sight and I enjoyed myself so much that I would have liked to spend much more time with Weeks' characters than the planned four books. Consequently, that's still the felling I have after having read The Broken Eye and that's a good sign. I think that the Lightbringer series will be one of the Epic Fantasy series that people compare other series to, if it can finish as it started.  It's not outstanding, but it fills a gap in the Epic Fantasy field alongside the likes of Brandon Sanderson's works.

The meticulously crafted world of Weeks is expanding, opening up and it feels like it's been energized in The Broken Eye.  The solid and original but sometimes obvious magic system shows no limit. It's now simply in the details, in the doctrine of the Chromaturgy and the way it's been twisted that the magic of the author's intricate creation really shine. That support for the cast is a mitigating factor explaining the enjoyment I wrote about earlier. The birthing process was arduous and scholarly but it ended up as a classy proposition.

[...] 

I hope I was able to show you how good and entertaining but not without flaws this series and particular novel are. I did say charming and I meant it. Many characters are simply heroic and against all odds, they succeed. A happy ending? Yes, in some storylines, it looks like a no-brainer. But judging by the characters killed, there's still hope of more surprises. And Brent, please take into consideration the info dumps like the payer of the Broken Eye (ouch) or all the recurrences on the previous books story. Gavin flashbacks were a blast tough. Give us more of his past! A prequel!

*

Words of Radiance

Brandon Sanderson

As I mentioned for The Broken Eye, Words of Radiance is right up my alley in term of big fat Fantasy novels and in this case, it will span 10 books. Words of Radiance is not without flaw but it's a memorable read that speaks well for the future of the Stormlight Archive.

Here's a glimpse of my review: 

Worldbuilding and magic systems are always a priority of Sanderson.  The basis for WoR is already solid. Slowly, the focus is taken away from the Shattered Plains, even if it's the full story that's taking place there.  The highstorms, sprens, shardplates and blades, fabrials, lashings, the Stormfather... all feel natural. The icing on the cake is the ability for him to make it even more fascinating. It's accepted but it's novelty. With the surprises at the ending... anyone want to know more about the Everstorm and its effects?

As a complement to the rich tale of the book, the mad king Taravangian and his random daily intelligence that spawned the prophetic diagram is making his plays.  The meta story is becoming more complex and the intrigue thickens while the characters remain at the core of this tapestry. Although the first half of the novel felt like a big epilogue of The Way of Kings in term of overall situation and had the same central setting, a whole new set of opportunities has opened in an intriguing new region.

The Stormlight Archive can now be seen as an impressive series, not simply a prelude of great things to come. Words of Radiance is a fascinating successor to The Way of Kings, but again it's not a revolution and has its flaws.  If I come back to the question I asked at the start of the review, I would say yes, Brandon Sanderson is a master, but not The master, of traditional, lengthy, magic heavy, classic but dexterously crafted, Epic Fantasy. WoR proves it for me. A very good read.

***

Best new author / Fantasy debut

Brian Staveley

The Emperor's Blades
Review

Last year, I said that: "More often that not, the debut authors who make name come as a surprise. ". 2014 was different. Brian Staveley's debut was pushed to the front with the help of the hype machine. His first book in the Unhewn Throne series, won't revolutionize the genre but Staveley's work should be a no brainer for fans of Epic Fantasy. From my review:

As you can see, there are enough original Fantasy elements to please everyone but the genre bending aficionado.  I already pointed out that the Kettral are a very good idea and you can consider that Staveley's magic system had some work put into it. It's not ''showing'' too much and we learn about it step by step, not simply in a rhetoric lecture in a class. In a nutshell, the leaches are magic practitioners who gather forces through a well which can be almost anything.  This is where it becomes interesting, the leaches hide their well from each other. This feature is used more than once by the author to create unpredictable situations. 

The Emperor's Blades presents its share of surprises but mostly by holding back some information from the reader (the author should work on this). The wells of leaches are an example.  Still, the book offers a good dose of action, more so when some of the different threads connect and is written with just the right amount of description and a pace keeping the reader interest high enough to make a satisfying page turner. And there's some great original swearing! 

To wrap things up, I would return to my opening statement, The Emperor's Blades is not the new thing that everybody will speculate about.  However, it offers interesting characters and even if the story and much of the "Medieval-themed" world building is conventional, it will quench the thirst of Epic Fantasy lovers in need of something familiar with some novelty here and there.  A commendable debut that will bring you back to old Fantasy we use to love.

***

Most beautiful map

Karvak Realm and Qiangguo

The Silk Map - Gaunt and Bone series by Chris Willrich

created by Rhys Davies

Index of maps

***

Runner-up for most beautiful map

The Syldoon Empire and Kingdom of Anuria
Sepia edition

Veil of the Deserters by Jeff Salyards

created by William McAusland

Index of maps

***

Most beautiful cover

Half a King 
(Subterranean Press limited edition)

Joe Abercrombie

Cover art by Jon McCoy

*

Runners-up for most beautiful cover

The Mirror Empire

Kameron Hurley
Cover art by Richard Anderson

*

Bonus time!

Best cover art with an infamous hooded assassin

The Shadow Master

Craig Cormick

Cover art by Steve Stone

***

Best novels I read this year that came out before 2014

Blood Song

Anthony Ryan

In 2014, I read both Anthony Ryan's debut, Blood Song from the Raven's Shadow series and the follow-up, Tower Lord (I realized that I never reviewed the book...). Blood Song was a big surprise (even if the reviews were pretty good). Sadly, the follow-up isn't really... but I'm not here to review the second book but to tell you how great Blood Song is.

An extract from my review:

Orders, brotherhoods or guilds.  They have been part of many Fantasy stories, even more so when their members are young men or women (for the latter it's less frequent...) dumped by their parents, beggar children or vagrants in need of a home or thieves in need of redemption. Usually, while being related to some kind of religion (war is often an aspect of Gods found in Fantasy) these orders were put in place to educate youngsters in the art of fighting in various forms with some entity behind it all, a religious organisation, an Empire or a rich patron.  Sounds familiar enough? If you have read books like Paul Hoffman's The Left Hand of God, Elspeth Cooper's Songs of the Earth or more recently The Emperor's Blade by Brian Staveley, it should.

In comparison with the first two novels I enumerated, Blood Song succeeds phenomenally.  Within the Sixth Order, right from the start of the book but after an introduction with his future self, we find ourselves following the exploits, failures, hardships and joy of the larger than life Vaelin Al Sorna.  The world in which the young man tries to take his place is a grim one, reminiscent of the darkest period of the Middle Ages, but, even within the confines of his Order, he will find ways to prove himself.  It's the story of the coming of age of a legend, a dangerous man whose actions will change the world.  There's a specter of prophecy surrounding him, within and without his Order, which becomes solely the mean to hone him as a weapon as he eventually grasp the ins and outs of the world.

[...] 

Blood Song is a great debut.  I'm convinced that with a first book in a series as strong as this one, the Raven's Shadow is worth keeping an eye on.  It's not groundbreaking Fantasy but as you live the story of Vaelin right alongside him, and I really mean live it. You won't forget it.  Really an exceptionally compelling character. I'm glad that Ryan persisted in his quest to be published.

***

Best of 2013

For the fifth time, I present my best of in various categories.  2013 has been another great year in Fantasy reading and as usual, it wasn't easy to choose between the numerous contenders.

'Best' from the past ...(2012 / 2011 / 2010 / 2009)

***

Best novel

River of Stars

Guy Gavriel Kay

Review

River of Stars was the first Guy Gavriel Kay novel I finished.  Not that his previous books were bad, but because the only other book from the author I picked up was the first part of the Fionavar Tapestry several years ago when my tolerance for Fantasy stories with links to the real world was... almost non-existent. Then, after reading several positive reviews over the years about almost all of Kay's books, I finally decided to jump in. I think I have probably missed something, but it's never too late. Even with only one novel read from him, I can say with certainty that Guy Gavriel Kay is now or will become one of my favorite authors. In River of Stars, I was awestruck at his writing. They were many great stories told and characters presented in 2013, but none could rival Ren Daiyan's opus.

Here's an extract of my review:

River of Stars is a tale of remembrance. The remembrance of a legend and how it was shaped. It's the re-enacting of important days and events in an era of China's Northern Song Dynasty and the paths that are taken, that could have been taken to shape that legend, a free interpretation of the mindset of the people who were part of it. Moreover, at the heart of that legend are some unlikely heroes, who, when they are stripped to the bone, may seem like common tropes for the shaping of myths, but ultimately stand as one of the purest form of protagonists worth writing about. 

The first element of Kay's writing that struck me is the fluid prose skillfully put to paper in a style easy to read and punctuated by an artistic phrasing.  On the plus side, while I found the frequent use of parentheses to be annoying at first, simply because I'm not used to it, I thought that it was a great way to accentuate the feelings of the characters or to add precision to a situation. Still on the writing style, there was another aspect that I found unusual, the references to the future and the many insights into what happens to the characters in their future.  River of Stars isn't a tale told in a present period with references to the past, it's a recounting of a turbulent period in a way reminiscent of a thesis on a part of history, brightened with an author's pen with a penchant toward introspection. 

River of Stars is bringing some of the High Fantasy in his Historic canvas. Not in term of huge battle scenes or heroic vanquishing of an evil overlord but in the sense that the quality of the work is greater than many of his fellow writers, in design, focus and plot for a story of epic proportion. It's not the funniest tale, it's not ruthless in term of page turning action but it's definitely a book worth picking up.  A nice change in a period dominated by grimmer works. 

*

Runners-up for best novel

Emperor of Thorns

Mark Lawrence
Review

Mark Lawrence was my favorite debut author of 2011 with Prince of Thorns and the follow-up, King of Thorns was my favorite book of 2012. When I picked up the last book in the trilogy, I had high hopes and they were met masterfully.  Lawrence successfully completed his story in Emperor of Thorns by giving us an unbelievable protagonist (in a positive way) that stayed true to the end.  The one thing that may have put this book as a runner-up in this category was the ending.  It was very interesting but it left me considering too much (I know, in certain cases that's a positive thing...), I'm still debating whether I liked it or not.

Here's an extract of my review:

For Emperor of Thorns, the same narrative structure is used by Lawrence, alternating between the events of the present and a flashback storyline.  Judging by the fact that it was masterfully handled in the two previous books, I'd say that the idea must have been a no-brainer.  So the story picks up when Jorg's getting ready to finally attend his second Congression in Vyene, but this time, his motivations and dedication to sit the all-throne seem boundless. Accompanied by the Gilden Guard, he takes the road with a few advisors.  As for the flashbacks, the story of Jorg's quest given him by the mysterious AI Fexler Brews resumes, sending him to Africa and back. 

At first, I thought that the flashbacks would have a lesser impact on the present story but I was happily deceived.  The whole plot doesn't revolve around a mystery as intriguing as the memory box in King of Thorns but the experiences and discoveries of Jorg are paramount to some events from King of Thorns and to several circumstances influencing what's happening toward the end of the book. 

Jorg's focus switch from his father and entourage to the whole Emperor purpose. The whole endeavor toward the rulership of the hundred kingdoms is seen with a completely different perspective in Emperor, Jorg never follow the conventions.  Back in King of Thorns, Jorg seemed more mature in his goal toward power and when I say mature, I mean it Jorg's way.  He was less frustrated but more committed and relentless to prove to everyone who had a key role in his growth that he was an avenger of blood coming back at them. But now, Jorg's life is different and whole new perspectives have been presented to him. His wits are sharper than ever and he has moved forward again but remains Jorg Ancrath and who can now stand in his way? 

[...] 

At the top of the list of elements I enjoyed the most in Emperor of Thorns is the persistence and perspicacity of Jorg, he doesn't compromise his corrupt principles.  Even if at times he seems to become someone else, to care freely, to invoke a conventional conscience or to act like a human should when put into his situation, he always remains himself and Lawrence put us back in place with some shocking actions, bringing a devilish smile or creating a gut reaction.  They can be stretched a bit but the twisted antihero, acting like it ought not to be considered, is what Jorg's all about.

*

The Tyrant's Law

Daniel Abraham

Review

Also for a second year, I put a book from the Daniel Abraham's The Dagger and the Coin series as a runner-up for best book of 2013.  At least this year, the review is done.  The Tyrant's Law may not have been the best book in the series so far but it kept my interest and expectations up and made me love even more the characters. I hope that this series will appeal to even more readers.

Here's a glimpse of my review: 

For me, The Dagger and the Coin was definitely one of the best ongoing series in Fantasy back when I read King's Blood (I forgot to post a review but it was among my best novels of last year... I will remedy to it soon) and still is with the addition of The Tyrant's Law to the sequence. Abraham's opus doesn't read as a trilogy or as a series with bridging books but as a direct continuation from one novel to the next.  The flow of his story is paced smoothly but in retrospect, you clearly realize that much ground has been covered, not simply in term of land traveled but in term of themes explored and characters traits scrutinized. 

[...] 

What I especially like about Abraham's story and storytelling is the feeling of being lead somewhere full of surprise, not jaw dropping amazement but toward an unexpected outcome in which I will be able to grasp the circumstances leading to it and being awed at the pieces of the big picture put together, even if some are a seen from afar. Softly assessing the situation of all protagonists with both important and usual moments can be deeply immersing and revealing but also insipid at first glance. Moreover, getting this feeling while reading a high quality prose is more than satisfying. 

With three books set in this world where economy and relationship between nations feels more real than what were used to witness in Fantasy, the background needs less development but still feels fresh and full of discoveries.  The author's choice of not delivering all the details of the various races is effective and slowly they are becoming more and more familiar.  They now stand as one of the elements at the heart of the story. Add to the recipe politics, cultist advisers and finally the tease of still living dragons and you get more for your money than what it seems.

***

Best new author / Fantasy debut

Anthony Ryan

Blood Song
Review to come

More often that not, the debut authors who make name come as a surprise.  This year wasn't different for me.  Anthony Ryan's debut, Blood Song, was released by Ace back in July. However, the book was previously released directly by the author in 2011/2012. Still, I chose to keep him in the debut category of this year.  My review should be up soon. I easily jumped into Ryan's world and was compelled to follow Vaelin Al Sorna's story.  I have read tales about a boy with a destiny being trained in an order but this one really manage to stand out of the crowd. Can't wait for the follow-up.

*

Runners-up for best new author / debut

Chris Willrich

The Scroll of Years
Review

Chris Willrich wrote several shorts before tackling a full length novel. You can read about it in the interview I made with the author (here). As you will gather with my review, The Scroll of Years really quenched my thirst for a great Sword and Sorcery story. Not only a great debut, but one of the best I have in the past years.

Here's an extract of my review:

Take two partners in crime with a conscience (you don't steal from just anybody you know), a fantastical setting and a troublesome and mysterious past and you get a canvas for a series of sword-and-sorcery stories with heists, adventure, magic, weird encounters and romantic mocking.  That's the background of The Scroll of Years. I would recommend to every reader who picks up the book to start with the first Gaunt and Bone short story included with the book, The Thief with Two Deaths. I didn't do it and I think that it gives a great insight into Gaunt and Bone relationship before getting into the specific tale of the book. 

[...] 

Willrich's prose is elegant, stylish and learned. It's not often that this level of skill accompany a sword and sorcery book and a debut at that. The Scroll of Years is a fast, fun and entertaining read, one of the first in the genre I liked this much since Alex Bledsoe's Eddie LaCrosse. It came as a surprise and I recommend it to everyone with a knack for heroism, humor, ingenious devices, twisted dragon lore, poetry, fighting and skin saving while making morally dubious choices.

*

Brian McClellan

Promise of Blood
Review

McClellan was previously a 'student' of Brandon Sanderson. Now he's standing on his own feet and he's doing it well. There's seems to be a small revitalization of Flintlock Fantasy this year and Promise of Blood clearly leads the crowd. Here's an extract of my review:

Black powder and guns have shown up sporadically in Fantasy.  In Promise of Blood, Brian McClellan chose to bring them at the forefront of an epic Fantasy story, flavoring a world where industrialization is taking its roots.  In this world, magic takes many shapes, from the elemental basis to the absorption of powder, creating a whole new breed of mages.  Incidentally, that last type of magic is quite reminiscent of Brandon Sanderson's allomancy. 

[...] 

Promise of Blood is a solid debut.  With the world and magic system set in place, I think that McClellan can now work extensively on the characters and story, which will certainly give us an even better novel next time. The author's prose is simple enough, straightforward and without unnecessary artifices but could use some more editing. Clearly, Flintlock Fantasy has found a promising new voice.

***

Most beautiful map

Adopest and Adro

Promise of Blood by Brian McClellan

created by Isaac Stewart

Index of maps

*

Runner-up for most beautiful map

Neldar

Shadowdance series by David Dalglish

created by Tim Paul

Index of maps

***

Most beautiful cover

The Heroes 
(Subterranean Press limited edition)

Joe Abercrombie

Cover art by Raymond Swanland

*

Runners-up for most beautiful cover

The Lies of Locke Lamora

Del Rey US release of the mass market paperback edition

Cover art by Unknown

*

The Last Page
Anthony Huso
Trade paperback edition

***

Bonus time!

Best cover art with an infamous hooded assassin

A Dance of Cloaks

Orbit books edition
David Dalglish

Cover art by Lauren Parepinto

***

Best audiobook narration

A Memory of Light by Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson

Narrated by Michael Karmer and Kate Reading

***

Best novels I read this year that came out before 2013

The Red Knight

Miles Cameron
My review

I wish I could have read this book last year, it would have probably been my favorite debut of the year. This book has to fall into the hands of every Fantasy readers. The Red Knight by Miles Cameron is a masterpiece of Military/Epic Fantasy.

An extract from my review:

Unfortunately, early on, the Red Knight is kind of a mess, spreading out in numerous directions.  We are thrown in a world with a mix of familiar and unfamiliar locations and presented with a company of mercenaries, the community of an abbey, the woken forces of the wild, the surrounding of the King of Alba and knights from the another country. With several point of views and frequent switches of them in short intervals, it takes a considerable time to feel familiar with Cameron's cast. When everything falls into place, a great tapestry of heroic proportion finds its rhythm and takes you into a gritty ride leaving a score of fallen forces on the battlefield. From there on, I couldn't put it down. 

That rhythm of action sequences or masterfully choreographed/rendered fights is like waves; it comes and goes with the critical events of the siege of Lissen Carak, hold by the Red Knight for the Abbess against the wild.  Undeniably, the most interesting perspective and characters are the Red Knight's own, his parentage being shrouded in mystery, and his entourage.  The mercenary captain is young and reacts like a empowered journeyman showing his age as he stumbles with a wide range of feelings, from love to death, hope to resignation. His gang of mercenary brothers is reminiscent of Glen Cook's Black Company or Steven Erikson's Malazan marines. 

[...] 

The Red Knight can't be considered as a beacon for the new 'grimdark' category but it's still epic fantasy with grit and gore (and dumb and immoral archers...). Representing life and battles in such a medieval outlook ought to give it this epithet.  In a previous poll, I asked readers which genre fits best with epic fantasy and the most popular answer was military.  If you're in need of a dose, this book will satisfy your appetite.

*

Forge of Darkness

Steven Erikson
My review

I couldn't finish without some Malazan love!  Don't worry, it's not simply the Malazan fan who is writing but also the reviewer. I won't say that Forge of Darkness is an easy read or an easy book to love but if you put just a little effort into it, you'll be more than rewarded.

An extract from my review:

Forge of Darkness is not really the Malazan Silmarillion, but it tries to recount, with a story seen through the eyes of so many protagonist, the genesis but mostly the unfolding of the Tiste races, the warrens, the elder gods, dragon soletakens, Jaghut individuality and more without focusing on any of these particular features. Several quite different introspections take place, occasionally too much of them, but at the end of the day, it's the story of war veterans would can't find purpose in peace and the usual reach for power. Although in this story, we already know that the consequences are world shattering. Lots of fascinating prospects are created for the follow-up with the Azathanai actions and Urusander legion re-establishment. 

If you have read Malazan books, the characters and the lore presented in Forge of Darkness will feel satisfying but also troublesome. The pleasure of reading about Draconus, Caladan Brood, Osserc, Spinnock, Malice or Gothos in the time period Erikson put them in is amazing but for quite a few of them, history seem to have twisted their origin. New readers won't mind and Steven said to have keep faith in him.  We will see with the next two books if he's right but simply putting the narration in the hands of poets who have their own interpretation of the events is somewhat perplexing. Anyway, if the tale and characters are compelling, is rectitude really necessary? 

If you ask yourself if you should pick up the book, the answer will be simple.  Do you really want to miss on a good plot with action set in a distinct setting where the cast is the cream of the Malazan history and they are jousting for their place in Kurald Galain, reveal secrets and create myths? Certainly not but as is the case with Erikson previous writing, there may be times when the choice of point of view is arguable, philosophical tirades are within the reach of every character and the well-versed prose can be complicated at times. Still,  Forge of Darkness is rich Epic Fantasy, less wide in scope than its predecessor but ambitious, loaded with insightful wit.

***

Best of 2012

Fourth year of my best of!  I now present you with almost the same categories as last year.

I still haven't posted by review of Red Country by Joe Abercrombie and I'm now almost finished with Forge of Darkness by Steven Erikson.  As you will see with the review, Red Country isn't my favorite novel of the year (and not my favorite Abercrombie either). So the author won't be my favorite for a third time in four. As for the other two novels, they would have been contenders but since I haven't finished them, they will wait for next year.  The same can be said for Black Bottle by  Anthony Huso, Mage's Blood by David Hair and The Broken Isles by Mark Charan Newton, three books I wanted to read this year but  didn't have time to.

Best from the past ...(2011 / 2010 / 2009)

***

Best novel

King of Thorns

Mark Lawrence

Review

Last year, he was among my favorite new debut authors and this year, he delivered an even better novel. King of Thorns may not be a book for the whole family, but it's a book you'll never forget.  Jorg, how can stay indifferent to Jorg's story? I clearly remember that this year, no novel made me feel as exhilarated than when I was turning the pages of the second book of The Broken Empire. The bar was set higher for the author's trilogy but I'm pretty confident that he can do it, King of Thorns is testament enough. Here's an extract of my review

The narrative is simply a paradise of introspection for the reader in search of a breakdown of human behaviour in circumstances where a psychopath in search of equilibrium finds out that the only way to survive is to charge.  These bursts of action can even be pretty cool but the reasons behind it could be disturbing for some.  Jorg explains his point of view about everything. Moreover, the epigraphs at the end of the chapters about Red Jorg's brothers are still present and they add to the peculiar lore of the characters surrounding the man.  The only element lessening that exploration is the realization that others influence the king of thorns' mind.

I felt more comfortable the second time around with the author's world. The wonder and feeling of surprise when discovering the nature of the broken empire has faded by now but there are still enough curiosities to keep a reader's appetite more than satisfied. If there were some reproach I could address to the author, it would be with the easy way out of an impossible situation where magic is involved. 

So, if you liked the first book and ask yourself if Jorg still delivers, the answer would simply be "Hell yes!".  If you couldn't stand Jorg... well he's still Jorg...

Runners-up for best novel

The King's Blood

Daniel Abraham
Review to come

Alright, the review is not posted yet but I have finished the book as I was writing my best of 2012.  I really liked the first book of Daniel Abraham new Fantasy series (The Dagger and the Coin), The Dragon's Path but I didn't see the second one coming (in term of impact). I was thrown off balance by some storylines in Dragon's Path and it goes even farther in King's Blood.  Geder's arc is formidable and since it's now mixing with almost everyone in the book, the prospects become more than interesting.  The plot moves slowly but steadily and without even knowing it, the world of the fascinating characters is turned inside out in way that I didn't saw coming.  The King's Blood should be on every Fantasy reader list! 

*

The Blinding Knife

Brent Weeks

Review

The Blinding Knife is in my best list for two simple reasons: it's a great book and it quenched my thirst of   good old epic Fantasy. It's a great adventure with cool protagonists, personal struggles, big wars, an imaginative magic system and surprises. Here's a glimpse of my review: 

To quote myself: "The Black Prism is a fast paced epic adventure concentrated around its magic system with a bunch of entertaining characters.".  With this in mind, I started reading The Blinding Knife and I was glad at first when I realized that the magic system, original and slightly overwhelming as it is, is now out of the way, firmly installed.  To my surprise however, I found out that it's developed even further and integrated into the story with much more skill than in The Black Prism. Weeks' world feels even more real this time around, the cohesion between the historical, magical, political and narrative elements being achieved seamlessly, all in symbiosis with the 'chromaturgic' lore.

The Lightbringer series is clearly for the fans of classic Epic Fantasy with big empires, prophecy, heroes and villains and a good deal of prowess.  However, even if Weeks is playing with subjects like fatherhood, love, power, brotherhoods and war, he's also able to dig deeper into these issues through his characters.  The book may look at first for all the family, without much grittiness in the prose, meaning that it's written for everyone but with adult subject matter more often than not, demonstrating some candor, deep reflection and perceptivity from the author. The storyline was meticulously planned out.

[...]

As you can see, I would recommend this book to everyone who read the first opus.  Be it that you were a bit disappointed by it or simply loved it, in this case, second time's the charm.

* 

The Cold Commands

Richard Morgan

Review

I know, it's a fourth 'second book' in a series. However, I had to mention this title. The Cold Commands is an intelligent novel written with some shock in mind by the author but the better for it.  The story of Ringil is captivating and here again, the expectations for things to come couldn't get better.  From my review:

At some point, the name of the book was The Dark Commands and eventually Morgan optimistically announced that he found a way to switch it back to Cold. When you read the novel, you'll understand the implications and I think he made the right choice.  The reference is toward the Dark Court. Their motivations in the first book were shrouded in mystery and it's not totally clear after two books what their ultimate goal really is or why they are meddling with the Dwenda's return and Ringil's "development". By the way, I think he should have more inkling by now that his path is being guided.

So, are we reading a story were the world will be saved by an unlikely redeemer or the creation of a new sinister overlord or unconscious deliverer?  I may repeat myself but having to ponder this even after two books is what makes this great. More so since it's through the characters themselves that this interrogation occurs.  When I started reading the book, I had some difficulties remembering the story of Steel Remains.  In a comment concerning that topic on Twitter, Justin of Staffer's Musing mentioned that it could be because the characters were strong and overrode the plot. I think he was spot on and that it shows again in Cold Commands.

In conclusion, I really feel that Morgan's writing transpire intelligence. He uses a peculiar way at times to render his dialogue but I felt that there was serious thinking behind all that is being said or thought of by the characters and where he wants them to be. The second time around, I think that he didn't try to disturb, shock or write a revolutionary work of Fantasy and it created a better novel.

***

Best new author / Fantasy debut

Jeff Salyards

Scourge of the Betrayer
Review

When Scourge of the Betrayer was released, it went under the radar.  Slowly, the blogosphere became interested and it caught my attention, the comparison with Abercrombie, Morgan and Cook helping.  Take a well-written first person perspective, just the right dose of grittiness, brilliant fight descriptions, a vivid atmosphere and great characters, mix them together and you have the debut novel of Jeff Salyards. Even though it felt slightly short, that's quite a start! Here's an extract from my review:

Among the aspects I preferred in Scourge are the battle descriptions but mostly the performances or progresses of them.  Brayard, the Syldoon Captain is skilled but he's not killing everybody with a well-placed stroke coming of nowhere.  His enemies are usually well armored so he has to use much cunning, perseverance and techniques to finally get 'through' them, and then, harm also finds its way to him.  It's read as a savage choreography seen almost in slow motion where every move is described and interpreted. 

Mr. Salyard's writing is straightforward.  Some of his characters have a peculiar way of speaking and his turns of phrase are somewhat 'singular'.  There are only a couple of chapters divisions and everything and I mean everything is detailed, a chronicle of every moments of the span of time covered in Scourge.  From the first encounter of Captain Killcoin and Arkamondos to their nights at the inn, from the road to the city Alespell to the machinations undertaken by the Syldoon in the city, there's only a dozen days or so going by and we are witness to all of it.  That's an intriguing way to tell a tale.  However, it creates some really great moments, full of expectancy. 

Taking all of this into consideration, you get a story recounted by an honest, untested and original narrator who makes it more than real.  The atmosphere is vivid, murky but enveloping.  I could easily imagine myself standing side by side with Arki. I'm not even sure the word imagine is the right one, I could feel the scenes.  Great work!

Runner-up for best new author / debut

Saladin Ahmed

Throne of the Crescent Moon
Review

Saladin Ahmed was one of the most talked about new voice in Fantasy this year. Throne of the Crescent Moon is a simple looking story hiding more depth than it looks with compelling characters set in an amazing setting. I hesitated between him and the mysterious Mazarkis Williams but I think that Ahmed skills were more honed. Here's an extract of my review:

As you have supposed by now, the tale recounted in Throne of the Crescent Moon is taking place in a mid-eastern setting. It's not a fanciful and unearthly world infused with elements of that particular culture but an imaginative world digging its roots deep into the lore of the Middle East.  From the names to the buildings depictions; from the food description to the preternatural beings inhabiting it, the world building connects together smoothly to create a great tapestry clearly reminiscent of these so called Thousand and One Nights, a fantastically brilliant execution of it. 

[...] 

Throne of the Crescent Moon is a book in three parts.  The first is a quick rise of action where multiple  compelling (and sometimes marginally annoying) characters are presented through some deeds and conversations while they present their nature.  The second act is where the events resolve for a time, an aftermath shedding some lights on the life of the protagonists in the city.  That part has intriguing moments, the investigation itself, but I also sensed some laxism with the characters relationship development.  Hopefully, the third act brings the pace back to its former speed and the resolution is gratifying. 

[...] 

There you have it. You may have the same reflex that I had when I saw this book coming out: "oh well, another Arabian Nights inspired sword and sorcery in a short time 'a la'  The Emperor's Knife or The Desert of Souls". Not quite. It's a fast and satisfyingly enjoyable read and you shouldn't miss it. I tell you, go pick it up now!

***

Most beautiful map

Far/Near Country

Red Country by Joe Abercrombie

created by David Senior and Laura Brett

Index of maps

Runner-up for most beautiful map

The Cerani Empire

The Emperor's Knife by Mazarkis Williams

created by David Senior

Index of maps

Special mention

Speculative map of aSoIaF

aSoIaF by George R.R. Martin

created by Ser Mountain Goat

Index of maps

***

Most beautiful cover

I can't seem to get enough of maps in Fantasy books. Even better is a map on the cover of a Fantasy book!

Red Country

Joe Abercrombie

Cover art by David Senior and Laura Brett

Runners-up for most beautiful cover

Dark Currents

Anthology edited by Ian Whates

Cover art by Ben Baldwin

Songs of the Earth
Elspeth Cooper
Gollancz MMPB edition

***

Kick ass moment of the year

Argh!  Another tough choice this year with only one entry... I promise that I will put more attention into my kick ass moments this year!

Kick ass moment #13

Alex Bledsoe
Wake of the Bloody Angel

***

Bonus time!

Best cover art with an infamous hooded assassin

Falling Kingdoms

Morgan Rhodes

Cover art by Shane Rebenschied

***

Best audiobook narration

The Blinding Knife by Brent Weeks

Narrated by Simon Vance

***

Best novel I read this year that came out before 2012

The White Luck Warrior

R. Scott Bakker

The White Luck Warrior is the second book of the second trilogy of Bakker's Fantasy story that started with the Prince of Nothing and is followed by the Aspect Emperor.  I think that Bakker's series should receive more attention.  His work may not be the easiest read but it's worth the try. Fans of Steven Erikson will certainly find something interesting in this series. An extract from my review:

What I realize while writing this review is that there are so much things I would wish to talk about. It's the kind of book that becomes so fun to speculate and share thoughts about.  The last series I read that created that feeling in me is Erickson's Malazan book of the fallen, which is more varied in almost all of the elements mentioned before. There is a score of interesting and entertaining Fantasy books out there, but there's only so much that can bring this kind of analytic playground. 

'Storywise' and in accordance with the Judging eye, there's still not much new stuff about the Consult and No-God. They remain as mirages on the horizon with brief reality check. However, their war peons are another idea. The Sranc ride the coattail of the army or run in front of it like a school of fish or a flock of birds. They are doing their part of the greater scheme of the almost unseen Consult/No-God but mostly act as bait. With Kellhus power being overwhelming, numbers becomes the answer for them. 

Then, there's the climax or conclusion for at least one important part of the tale.  I won't spoil and I'll simply summarize by saying that the point of view switches that bring to life an epic battle scene mixed up with a confrontation of timeless entities is simply brilliant. I hope that with this review you'll be able to judge if this novel is for you. I, for one, think that's it more than worthy of far greater attention.

***