Page Burners is our ongoing group-read podcast series where we tackle some of fantasy and speculative fiction’s biggest and most challenging books one section at a time.

For this readalong, we’re diving into Deadhouse Gates, the second novel in The Malazan Book of the Fallen by Steven Erikson. Expanding the world introduced in Gardens of the Moon, this novel shifts much of the action to the continent of Seven Cities, introducing new characters, unforgettable storylines, and some of the most emotionally powerful moments in modern fantasy.

Rather than rushing through the novel, we break it into manageable chapter groupings and dedicate an episode to each section. Every discussion explores what happened, why it matters, and the themes and ideas that have made Deadhouse Gates one of the most celebrated entries in the Malazan series.

This page serves as the complete episode guide for our Deadhouse Gates readalong.

Why Read Deadhouse Gates with Page Burners?

While Gardens of the Moon introduces readers to the Malazan universe, Deadhouse Gates expands that world dramatically. New continents, cultures, and viewpoints make the series feel even larger, while Erikson continues to trust readers to piece together the story without lengthy exposition.

Page Burners is designed to help readers navigate that complexity without spoiling the experience of discovery.

Our discussions aim to:

• Help readers stay oriented through each section of the novel
• Explore the themes, history, and worldbuilding behind the story
• Discuss character motivations and major story developments
• Share both first-time reader impressions and rereader insights
• Build a community around one of fantasy’s most ambitious series

Whether you’re experiencing Deadhouse Gates for the first time or revisiting Seven Cities on a reread, you’re welcome to read along, listen after each section, and join the conversation on our community forum.

What You’ll Find in Each Episode

Every Page Burners episode covers:

• Plot clarity and major events
• Character arcs and motivations
• Themes, symbolism, and worldbuilding
• Magic systems, history, and lore
• First-time reader reactions alongside veteran perspectives

Episode Guide

Page Burners: Deadhouse Gates by Steven Erikson – Prologue, Chapters 1, 2

Page Burners: Deadhouse Gates by Steven Erikson – Chapters 3 – 5

Page Burners: Deadhouse Gates by Steven Erikson – Chapters 6 and 7

Page Burners: Deadhouse Gates by Steven Erikson – Chapters 8 – 10

Page Burners: Deadhouse Gates by Steven Erikson – Chapters 11 & 12

Page Burners: Deadhouse Gates by Steven Erikson | Chapters 13 – 15

Page Burners: Deadhouse Gates by Steven Erikson | Chapters 16 – 18

Page Burners: Deadhouse Gates by Steven Erikson | Chapters 19 – 21

Page Burners: Deadhouse Gates by Steven Erikson

FULL SERIES SPOILER Deadhouse Gates Discussion, Malazan Book of the Fallen by Steven Erikson

As new Page Burners episodes are released, this guide will remain a permanent resource for readers making their way through Deadhouse Gates.

Be sure to subscribe to Page Chewing and bookmark this page so you can easily return to each discussion as you progress through one of the most unforgettable novels in The Malazan Book of the Fallen.