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The Dragonmount Fantasy Review The Prince of Nothing by R. Scott Bakker   This month on Dragonmount's Fantasy Review, I’ll be looking at R. Scott Bakker’s The Prince of Nothing Trilogy, which is the first series in a two part set that will be called The Second Apocalypse. I should probably begin it with a content warning, because this series is much darker and contains much more adult content than the Wheel of Time. There is sex, violence and coarse language in abundance, so with that in mind, let’s continue.   What is the Prince of Nothing series about?   The Prince of Nothing is a story on three levels. The uppermost level deals with the growing Holy War between two major religions, the Inrithi and the Fannim, in the area known as the Three Seas. The political vying of the various kingdoms, empires, religious orders, and magical Schools on the Inrithi side of the conflict, is the tapestry in which the series is laid out. And to the knowledge of most involved, this is the only game being played. The second level involves the machination of the Unholy Consort, who wish to bring about the Second Apocalypse and the return of the No-God, Mog-Pharau, and their opponents, the Mandate School of magic who retain the memories of their founder, Seswatha, who lived through, and fought in, the First Apocalypse.   Into this walks the third level of the story; Anasûrimbor Kellhus, an unknown, and largely unknowable element to those involved. Kellhus is one of the Dûnyain, which are a reclusive monastic society dedicated to the study of logic, rationality and reason. Added to the thousands of years of selective breeding, and the process of training the Dûnyain call ‘conditioning’, this upbringing results in a warrior whose abilities to study, analyse, understand and predict those around him to such an extent that ‘world-born men’, as the Dûnyain name them, become like children before him.   Kellhus enters the Three Seas from the Ancient North, a land devastated in the First Apocalypse, with a purpose—hunting down his father, another Conditioned Dûnyain, presumably to end the threat he poses to the secrecy of the order. Perceiving a weapon in the Holy War, Kellhus sets about a coldly calculated manipulation to usurp it.   Why Do I Suggest This Series to Wheel of Time Fans?   The scope of this series, like the Wheel of Time, is vast, spanning a continent with a multitude of ethnicities, religions and nations, and a history going back thousands of years. As with the Wheel, there is the over-arching theme of good versus evil, though in this context the shades of gray are much... murkier. Bakker uses this set up to explore much deeper themes, much as Jordan was want to do, and like Jordan, he drew heavily on real world events, history and mythology in the construction of his world, granting it a sense of depth and solidity.   I spoke above of the darker, more adult tone, and that is true, but for those who enjoyed the complexity of the Wheel—especially in the nature of character growth and worldbuilding, then there is much to be found in The Prince of Nothing.   Themes, and the Importance of Philosophy   Within the Prince of Nothing Bakker explores the depth of the human condition—from the dangers of the coldly rational mind to the extremes of religious fanaticism, Bakker shows the sordid truth of how history is built—one lie at a time. And yet, even as Kellhus slowly subverts the Holy War, you see him learning, both through his interactions with his teacher, Drusas Achamian, and through philosophical extremes his assumed role within the Holy War take him.   The Literary Style   Whilst beautifully written, Bakker’s style does not lend itself to casual reading. Heavily anchored in Bakker’s literary past, the complicated prose is in some ways both the highlight and the major setback in Bakker’s novels. It will take you to the heights of the emotional and metaphysical struggles of the characters—if you stick with it.   The Role of Magic   The only other comparison I would draw is that if you liked the One Power, I suspect you will enjoy the magic of Bakkers world. Not that the two are in anyway similar, but the magic Bakker has woven is a thing of dark philosophical implications, beautifully examined in the relationship between the Mandate Sorcerer, Drusas Achamian, who is at once both the most hopeless and hopeful characters of the series, and Kellhus himself. And in that, it evoked in me a similar sense of fascination as the One Power, and the potent effect it has on its channelers (especially the men).   Conclusions   The Prince of Nothing is a complex and beautifully woven story, and brings to the table far more than a hack and slash battle. It’s themes, it’s character development and the sheer potency of the writing, make it in my opinion, a must read—though that being said the content and the style of the writing could very easily be off putting to some.   You can purchase the first book, The Darkness that Comes Before from Amazon here.

In this week's Wheel of Time Video News, Kristen shares her experience of learning how to channel.   Hmm. Perhaps she should remain a Novice bit longer....   This episode of the Wheel of Time Video News is sponsored by TaverenTees.com -- the official location for WoT t-shirts. "Wear a piece of the Pattern."   http://www.youtube.com/embed/a4R00UNuDI8?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen>

Dragonmount is proud to announce a partnership agreement with Tor books to produce multiple videos to promote A Memory of Light. Building on the success of the Towers of Midnight book trailer, Tor has commissioned us to produce multiple live-action videos for the final Wheel of Time novel.   In addition to these video "trailers", a collection of behind-the-scenes features will be produced, along with other associated media, prize give-aways and fun stuff. The campaign is expected to begin sometime near the end of 2011.   In case you missed it, DM produced a "book trailer" last year for the release of Towers of Midnight. It received strong positive reviews and quickly became Tor's most viewed video ever. You can read all about the making of the video (with video and photos) on our Behind the Scenes page.   A Memory of Light is the fourteenth and final novel in the WoT saga. No official release date has been announced, although it is expected sometime in 2012.   Production for these video will happen over the summer in California. If you're interested in helping with production, please send an email showing your interest with appropriate filmmaking or related skillsets to movies@dragonmount.com.   The Towers of Midnight book trailer: http://www.youtube.com/embed/apJJ0NzOXEg" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen>

Well, I'm finally back from JordanCon. If you haven't had a chance yet, check out the excellent episode the Dragonmount Video team made about it.   This week, we're looking at the Aiel. Next year's JordanCon will be "Car'a'con", so it's never too early to start getting ideas for costumes.       This is an excellent group portrait of several Aiel by Jeremy Saliba. The Aiel form of dress is based on Arab tribesmen and I think this illustrates that. The clothes are flowing, with lots of pockets and layers that allow for cool air to be trapped inside and protect the skin from the sun. But since the Aiel are also warriors, it takes the form of loose trousers and shirts, rather than flowing robes and caftans. Jeremy is one of two officially licensed fan artists, but unfortunately this piece isn't for sale.     This Maiden pencil sketch is done byNelly Lozanova. Far Dareis Mai is the only all woman warrior society in Randland until Elayne creates her bodyguard. The Seanchan army seems to be gender neutral, and the forces of Randland proper seem to be predominantly male, with the exception of a few women mercenaries. I like the shading and the lines on this piece.     This sketch of the Wise Ones by Gala Maia is a little rougher than the other pieces, but I still think it does a good job of conveying the strength and power of these women. Sorilea (in the middle) in particular looks like she could kill and eat me.     This is a very lovely digital painting by fee-absinthe called "I have toh". Aviendha lies about her feelings to Rand, and has to meet her toh. She chooses to be beaten by the Wise Ones, though she does not tell them who she lied to or what about. The colors in this are amazing and I love that the background is unfinished. It lets you really focus on the subject. Really nicely done.

Over the weekend, the 2011 Hugo nominations were announced. The Hugos are considered the highest honor in fantasy and science fiction writing and fandom. While Towers of Midnight wasn't nominated in the "Best Novel" category this year, there is a nomination of interest to Wheel of Time fans.   Brandon Sanderson's podcast, Writing Excuses, (with writers Dan Wells and Howard Tayler also hosting) was nominated for a Hugo in the "Best Related Work" category. This is the first time a podcast has been nominated in this category, and the second podcast to be recognized by the World Science Fiction Society in any category. Also of interest, Moshe Feder, Sanderson's editor for his solo novels, was nominated this year for "Best Editor-Long Form"   If you're interested in voting on the Hugos this year, you will need to be a registered member of this year's WorldCon held in Reno, Nevada Aug. 17-21. If you are unable to attend, WorldCon offers Supporting Memberships that allow you to vote without attending the convention. Wheel of Time fans Linda Taglieri and Jennifer Liang are confirmed Program Participants for the convention. Brandon Sanderson will also be attending, along with hundreds of other authors, editors and fans.

Last weekend was the third annual JordanCon, the fan convention founded in honor of The Wheel of Time author Robert Jordan. Guests this year included Hugo nominated author Eugie Foster, steampunk and urban fantasy writer Jana Oliver and JordanCon Guest of Honor David B. Coe.Other notables included Brandon Sanderson, Harriet McDougal, Maria Simons and Alan Romanczuk. If you missed out on the fun, here are some reviews, recaps and photo galleries, along with a special extended edition episode of Dragonmount's Video News with Kristen Nedopak. http://www.youtube.com/embed/M1F6Ga7Kg_k" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen>   Photo Albums Lannis's Album Stephen A. Watkins's Album Featherynscale's Album AniMajor's Album   Convention Reports Eugie Foster's Report Stephen A. Watkin's Report Leigh Butler's Report (Part One/Part Two/Part Three/ Part Four) Linda Taglieri's Report (Part One/ Part Two)

JordanCon, the only convention in the world dedicated to Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time series is this weekend in Atlanta, Georgia. This year's Guest of Honor is fantasy author David B. Coe. Other attending authors are Brandon Sanderson, Jana Oliver, Jamie Chambers and the Hugo-nominated Eugie Foster. Joining them will be fan personalities Leigh Butler, Richard Fife, Matt Hatch, Linda Taglieri and our own Jason Denzel and Jennifer Liang.   Here are some links you may find useful, or at least interesting:   JordanCon's official Facebook group. JordanCon tentative schedule JordanCon Progress Report At the door registration is $65. Single day memberships are available.   You can also check out our special JordanCon episode of "Wheel of Time Video News".   http://www.youtube.com/embed/oBflGf5H0OI?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen>   Kristen Nedopak and the rest of the video team will be at the convention, so you might get a chance to be on camera with them.

By popular demand, we've re-opened our online store!   Dragonmount's online store primarily contains WoT jewelry items for both men and women. Items such as Aes Sedai rings, Foxhead medallions, and even coursouvas, are available in a variety of forms. These items are crafted by Badali Jewelry, and are available at the lowest prices anywhere right here on DM.   To celebrate the launch of our jewelry store, we'll be giving an extra discount for everyone for the next 10 days. Use the coupon code heartstone to gain an additional 10% off all jewelry items. It expires after April 19th.   The other significant item in our store is the return of the Dragonmount Premium Accounts! By purchasing one of these annual subscriptions, you will gain access to the exclusive chat room on DM, as well as gained increased account space for both your Personal Messages (PM's) and online gallery. You'll also get an additional 5% discount on all other store items. If you are a frequent contributor to the social scene here at DM, then this is a must-have. Also, we have a lot of cool plans for the premium account holders coming down the line. New features will be added soon.   In celebration of these premium accounts, we're offering a full 40% discount on them for the next few months. Enter the coupon code thechosen to receive this discount. It expires after August 1st.   Why we are offering Premium Accounts Some people have questioned why we are offering this. (Fair question!) The reason is that we are regularly asked by people how they can support Dragonmount. Instead of just accepting donations, we felt that we wanted to give something back in return for your kindness. While anybody can buy one of these, they are primarily aimed at the thousands of fans who spend a considerable amount of time on our forums.   To visit our online store, click the link in our main menu above, or" rel="external nofollow">http://www.dragonmount.com/forums/store/">or just click here.

Would you believe that I had this done and then something hiccuped and I lost everything? So annoying. I had to redo this from scratch in a hurry. But I think I found even better art this time around for you.   This week, we're looking at the women of the White Tower. The Aes Sedai are a huge part of Robert Jordan's story. The Tower itself is the backdrop of many plotlines and a good chunk of the female characters are either Aes Sedai, or have trained at some point to be Aes Sedai.     First up is this portrait of Leane by Fee-Absinthe. Leane was Siuan's Keeper of the Chronicles until her stilling. Not knowing if she's ever be able to channel again, she turned to being a sexpot for something else to fill her time. It's kind of fun watching a woman who had denied herself sexuality for so long, decide to complete own it. This portrait captures that transition I think.     Elaida, by sicilianvalkyrie Elaida is a Sitter for the Reds, who masterminds a coup against Siuan Sanche and becomes Amyrlin herself. The Tower coup is the shattering that sets a good deal of the plot in motion making Elaida a key character. She has now held prisoner by the Seanchan and by all reports, she is NOT a good damane.     Ah, Liandrin. She pretty much drips "Black Ajah" from the moment we see her. This is by ravenwing136   And that's all I've got time for today. I'll have to do this theme again and see if I can find some of what I originally used.   Speaking of time, I'll be Chairing JordanCon next weekend. I may not have time to write this column ahead of time so it can run while I'm gone. So if you don't hear from me, you know what's going on. And if you'll be at the convention, be sure and say "Hi" to me.

The Dragonmount Fantasy Review The Malazan Book of the Fallen by Steven Erikson   Welcome back to Dragonmount's monthly fantasy review. This month's review is on Steven Erikson's epic fantasy series, The Malazan Book of the Fallen. Don't let the singular use of the word "book" confuse you either, each "tale" in the Malazan world is a book in its own right, and quite a large one at that. The tenth and final novel in the series, The Crippled God, was just released bringing to a close the main sequence series. However, several other novels set within this world are still planned.   What is The Malazan Book of the Fallen About? Why Would I Recommend it To Wheel of Time Fans?   The Malazan world is the only fantasy world that I've encountered which is larger in scope than that of the Wheel (George R. R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire would also come close, I suppose). The series takes place across six continents, involving empires, nations, city-states, and religious uprisings. There is hundreds of thousands of years of history layered through the story. You have dragons and shape-shifters, and an entire pantheon of selfish gods ready and willing to manipulate mortals. And, moreover, Erikson is ready and willing to show you them all.   When armies march, in the Malazan world, you don't ride just behind the eyes of the generals and their small council of worthy notables, you get in deep and dark with the individual marine squads on the front line. You meet the enemy and learn to like them--or not, as the story needs. You get to see the political machinations behind the war, the games of assassins and emissaries.   What is the Value in this Style?   Well, the writing itself is pretty engaging, if sometimes given to being overly verbose. In my opinion the greatest value in this is that Erikson does the prep-work damned well, and as such when it comes times for the climax, it becomes explosive--when Anomander Rake draws his sword, you will want to jump up and down. When the Bonehunters decide to march on a rival empire, you'll be ready to scream. When High Mage Quick Ben does... well, anything, you'll probably clap, even if it makes you look stupid. Indeed, when it comes to the ending of each of these books you'll have been brought to understand what's at risk, who's at risk, why the characters are risking it--and then you get to watch as Erikson weaves all this neatly together into an ending which explodes off the page.   Alright, So What Are The Downsides?   Erikson doesn't really ease you into his world--rather he drops you in the ocean at midnight, and then proceeds to whip up a storm. I've compared it to being introduced to the Wheel circa A Crown of Swords, but even that's not entirely accurate as Erikson continues to run--constantly working in more and more elements of the world. I think it was the end of the third novel, Memories of Ice, that I felt I was truly beginning to get a grip on the world.   Of course it is not a truly insurmountable problem. The characters are interesting, the plot is gritty and engaging, so the fact that you are filled with a vague sense of confusion over what's what and why things are the way they are doesn't necessarily detract from the enjoyment of the story. But even though you might be a bit confused about it, Erikson is not, and you will come to understand everything.   You Didn't Really Answer the Question. What's The Malazan Book of the Fallen About?   The series does have an over-arching storyline, though it doesn't become truly apparent until the later books, nor do you realize the ways in which the events of the earlier books are moving toward or supplying for that overlying arc. So in book one, Gardens of the Moon, we have the Malazan invasion of the continent of Genebackis, and all the politics that responds to that. In book two we jump to the continent of Seven Cities with the beginning of the uprising of the cult of Drhyjna the Apocalyptic, and book three were back to Genebackis. Though characters and sub-plots crossover in each of these books they are largely self-contained stories, with their own endings.   So yeah, just trust me when I say it's quite a ride.   Final Comments   To those who enjoy the scope of the world-building within the Wheel of Time, The Malazan Book of the Fallen will blow your mind. Beyond that, the characters and plot--and perhaps more significantly, the key character moments and plot points, are all chock full of awesome. Though it should be warned that this is a somewhat darker series than the Wheel, including far more graphic violence and sexual content.   You can purchase the first book, Gardens of the Moon here and support Dragonmount.   <div align="center"><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=dragonmount&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=0765322889" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe> </div>