The God is Not Willing: The First Tale of Witness

The thrilling opening chapter in an epic new fantasy from the author of The Malazan Book of the Fallen.
Many years have passed since three Teblor warriors brought carnage and chaos to Silver Lake.
Now the tribes of the north no longer venture into the southlands.
In truth, many new religions have emerged and been embraced across the Malazan world.
But further north, a new threat has emerged, and now it seems the Teblor are running out of time.

Format: Paperback
Publication date: 30 June 2022
Publisher: Transworld

Prepare to be captivated by the enchanting world of epic fantasy once again! ANNA SMITH SPARK, the acclaimed author of "The Malazan Book of the Fallen," has unveiled a thrilling new chapter in her mesmerizing storytelling.

Many years have passed since the devastating reign of three Teblor warriors, who brought chaos and carnage to Silver Lake. The once-thriving town has managed to recover, but the lingering legacy of their actions remains. Indeed, one of the three, Karsa Orlong, has risen to become a revered god, albeit an indifferent one. Across the vast Malazan world, a multitude of new religions have emerged and been embraced, each with its own unique beliefs and practices. Coltaine, the Black-Winged Lord, holds a special place in the hearts of many, while the cult of Iskar Jarak, Guardian of the Dead, is particularly popular among the Empire's soldiery.

In response to reports of growing unease among the tribes beyond the border, a legion of Malazan marines sets forth on a mission to Silver Lake. Though their preparations are incomplete, and the Malazan military has undergone significant evolution, one thing remains unwavering: these marines are prepared to face any challenge that comes their way, even if it means giving their lives in the pursuit of justice.

As they march towards Silver Lake, the marines are unaware of the formidable adversary they will encounter. However, they are well-versed in the changing nature of warfare and the evolving tactics of their enemies. While the Malazan military has evolved, these marines are not the same as those of old. They have been trained to adapt and overcome any obstacle that stands in their way, and they are determined to emerge victorious.

In the high mountains, a new warleader has emerged amongst the Teblor. Scarred by the deeds of Karsa Orlong, he is determined to confront his god, even if it means embarking on a bloody crusade that spans the entire Malazan Empire. His mission is clear: to bring an end to the indifference and neglect that Karsa Orlong has shown towards his people.

But further north, a new threat emerges, and it seems the Teblor are running out of time. Another long-feared migration is about to begin, and this time, it will not just involve three warriors. Tens of thousands of Teblor are poised to pour into the lands to the south, driven by a sense of desperation and a longing for a better life. In their way, a single company of Malazan marines stands as the last line of defense.

As the past begins to revisit Silver Lake, the consequences are dire. The town has already suffered enough, and the people are bracing themselves for yet another onslaught of violence and destruction. The marines, too, know that they are facing an impossible task. But they are determined to do everything in their power to protect the people they have sworn to serve.

The journey ahead is treacherous, and the marines will face countless challenges and obstacles. They will encounter fierce battles, face their own demons, and confront the darkest forces of the Malazan world. But they are not alone. They are united by their shared purpose and their unwavering loyalty to each other.

In the end, the fate of Silver Lake and the Malazan Empire hangs in the balance. Will the marines be able to hold off the Teblor invasion? Will they be able to confront Karsa Orlong and bring an end to his reign of indifference? Only time will tell.

But one thing is certain: the world of epic fantasy has once again captivated the hearts and minds of readers, and ANNA SMITH SPARK has delivered a masterpiece that will leave you breathless and longing for more.

Weight: 319g
Dimension: 178 x 110 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529177091