This book has been such a big deal for such a long time that it’s almost impossible to come to it without some preconceptions.

When I first started reading I knew it was long, generally well regarded, and that I had tried and failed to read it (i.e. gave up after the first two pages while I was in a reading rut) many years ago. I listened to the new audiobook version and read the physical book in about a 70 /30 ratio (I listened to most of it).

This is one of those books that definitely earns the hype surrounding it. The world it creates is at once utterly unique and yet completely believable. The story, once it gets going, is a true delight and the fantasy within these pages rivals almost anything else in the genre. The author has a clear talent for writing compelling characters as well, particularly ones that aren’t really very good people at all (except for you Stephen Black, you’re perfect and we’re glad you’re here).

This book is a tome, a cinderblock, a potential weapon given its size and weight, but despite that I found myself wishing it were even longer, it was just that good.