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  • Path of Ascendancy Book 5

Path of Ascendancy Book 5

Path to Ascendancy #5 / 6
by Ian C. Esslemont
Path of Ascendancy Book 5 (Path to Ascendancy #5) by Ian C. Esslemont
⧗ 9.84 / 6
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The upcoming fifth book in Path to Ascendancy series by author Ian C. Esslemont.

More info about Path of Ascendancy Book 5 coming soon ...

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FantasyHigh Fantasy
Release date: 2026

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Ian C. Esslemont

Ian C. Esslemont

Ian C. Esslemont is a name that echoes through the halls of epic fantasy, often found alongside fellow author Steven Erikson as a co-creator of the vast, intricate world of the Malazan Book of the Fallen. But Esslemont’s journey began long before he joined forces with Erikson—his passion for storytelling and rich, complex worlds stretches back to his early years, when he first explored the realms of imagination.

Born in Canada, Esslemont’s deep love for fantasy literature was forged through his voracious reading and his fascination with history and mythology. His stories delve into the complexities of power, the murky ethics of war, and the human experience amidst chaos. This passion for storytelling eventually led him to co-create the Malazan Empire, a sprawling, multi-layered universe that became the foundation for his own novels. Esslemont's contribution to the Malazan saga is indispensable, as his books expand on the history and peoples of this monumental world, breathing new life into characters and landscapes first introduced in Erikson’s works.

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Esslemont’s writing stands out for its blend of historical depth and mythic complexity. His world-building is immersive, his plots twist and turn with intricacy, and his characters, both hero and villain, are deeply human despite the grand fantasy setting. His novels—such as Night of Knives, Return of the Crimson Guard, and Stonewielder—captivate readers with their high-stakes drama, emotionally rich character arcs, and exploration of the darker aspects of power.

While Esslemont's books are set against the backdrop of epic warfare and political intrigue, his themes often focus on the struggles of individuals within vast systems, making his work not just a feast for fantasy lovers but a poignant exploration of what it means to fight, survive, and choose one’s path in a fractured world.

A versatile and skilled writer, Esslemont continues to build upon the Malazan mythos, exploring untold stories and pushing the boundaries of the genre with every release. His work, while deeply rooted in epic fantasy traditions, is not afraid to subvert expectations and challenge the conventional tropes of heroism, morality, and power. Fans of intricate, thought-provoking narratives with a touch of darkness will find much to admire in Ian C. Esslemont’s rich literary legacy.

Path to Ascendancy

Path to Ascendancy is an unflinching journey into the depths of the Malazan Empire, exploring the rise of one of its most pivotal figures—Empress Laseen. Set against the backdrop of a fractured empire, this prequel series invites readers into a world where power is not simply inherited, but forged through blood, betrayal, and ambition.

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In these gripping novels, Esslemont delves into the complex webs of politics and warfare that shape the empire, bringing to life the characters who will come to define its future. Through the eyes of rising generals, spies, and schemers, readers witness the brutal machinations that pave the way for the empire's ultimate ascension—and its eventual unraveling.

What makes Path to Ascendancy so compelling is its blend of intimate character studies with epic world-building. Esslemont doesn’t just tell the story of the Malazan Empire’s foundations; he unearths the hidden struggles, the alliances built on fragile trust, and the ever-present threat of betrayal that saturates every corner of this brutal world. The series offers a deeper understanding of the political dynamics at play, shedding light on the ruthless minds behind the empire's rise, while also exploring the often-flawed human beings caught in the gears of power.

Esslemont’s writing captures the stark complexity of life in an empire where loyalty is tenuous, where wars rage on distant shores, and where the future is never guaranteed. Each book adds another layer to the grand Malazan mythos, delving into the origins of key factions, characters, and pivotal events that will resonate across the broader Malazan saga.

In Path to Ascendancy, Esslemont invites readers to experience a world of turmoil and ambition, where no one is safe from the deadly politics that swirl around the throne. Fans of the Malazan series and newcomers alike will be drawn to the dark, enthralling tale of power and ascendancy that will leave them questioning: at what cost does greatness come?


Path to Ascendancy consists of four books and series is set to expand with the upcoming release of two more books. The current recommended reading order for the series is provided below.

Main series Malazan World

Dancer's Lament (Path to Ascendancy #1)
★ 9.00 / 3
Deadhouse Landing (Path to Ascendancy #2)
★ 9.66 / 3
Kellanved's Reach (Path to Ascendancy #3)
★ 7.50 / 2
Forge of the High Mage (Path to Ascendancy #4)
★ 10.00 / 2
Path of Ascendancy Book 5 (Path to Ascendancy #5)
⧗ 9.84 / 6
Path of Ascendancy Book 6 (Path to Ascendancy #6)
⧗ 10.00 / 1


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