Vlad Taltos Novels By Steven Brust: A Comprehensive Guide

by Jhon Lennon 58 views

Hey guys! If you're looking to dive into a fantasy series that's both intricate and incredibly engaging, then the Vlad Taltos novels by Steven Brust are definitely your jam. This series blends elements of crime, fantasy, and humor into a rich tapestry that keeps you hooked from the very first page. So, let's break down what makes this series so special, shall we?

What are the Vlad Taltos Novels?

The Vlad Taltos novels, penned by the amazing Steven Brust, revolve around the life and adventures of Vlad Taltos, a human (Easterner) living in the Dragaeran Empire. Now, this isn't your typical fantasy setting. The Dragaerans are a long-lived, magically powerful race, and Vlad, being a human, is somewhat of an outsider. What makes him stand out, though, is his involvement in the criminal underworld. He's basically a mob boss, and the series follows his escapades as he navigates the dangerous world of organized crime, political intrigue, and ancient magic.

Steven Brust started this series back in 1983 with Jhereg, and it’s been ongoing ever since. What’s really cool about the series is that it’s not published in chronological order. Brust jumps around the timeline, giving us glimpses into different periods of Vlad's life. This non-linear approach keeps things fresh and adds an element of mystery, as you often know where Vlad ends up but not necessarily how he gets there. The blend of fantasy and crime elements, combined with Brust's witty writing style, makes the Vlad Taltos novels a unique and compelling read. Seriously, if you're tired of the same old fantasy tropes, this series will be a breath of fresh air.

Why You Should Read the Vlad Taltos Series

Okay, so why should you invest your time in the Vlad Taltos novels? Well, first off, the world-building is phenomenal. Steven Brust has created a richly detailed society with its own customs, politics, and history. The Dragaeran Empire feels like a real place, and you'll find yourself getting lost in its intricacies. The characters are another huge draw. Vlad Taltos is a complex and relatable protagonist. He's not a hero in the traditional sense; he's flawed, makes mistakes, and often finds himself in morally gray situations. But that's what makes him so compelling. You'll root for him even when he's making questionable choices.

Beyond Vlad, the supporting cast is equally well-developed. From his familiar Loiosh, a jhereg (a small, winged dragon-like creature), to his various allies and enemies in the criminal underworld, each character has their own motivations and backstories. The series also does a great job of exploring themes like prejudice, social inequality, and the nature of power. Given Vlad's position as an Easterner in a Dragaeran society, these themes are woven into the narrative in a thought-provoking way. Plus, Brust's writing style is just a joy to read. He effortlessly blends humor, action, and philosophical musings, keeping you entertained and engaged throughout. Trust me; you won't be disappointed.

A Quick Look at the Main Characters

Let's dive into some of the key players in the Vlad Taltos novels. Knowing a bit about these characters beforehand can really enhance your reading experience.

  • Vlad Taltos: Our main man! Vlad is a human who has made a name for himself in the Dragaeran criminal underworld. He's intelligent, resourceful, and has a knack for getting himself into (and out of) trouble. Despite his profession, he has a strong sense of loyalty and a dry sense of humor.
  • Loiosh: Vlad's familiar, a jhereg. Loiosh is more than just a pet; he's a companion, advisor, and often the voice of reason. Their bond is one of the highlights of the series.
  • Khaavren: One of Vlad's closest friends, Khaavren is a Dragaeran and a member of the Imperial Guard. He's honorable, brave, and often serves as Vlad's moral compass.
  • Morrolan: Another Dragaeran friend of Vlad's, Morrolan is wealthy, eccentric, and incredibly powerful. He's often involved in Vlad's schemes, though his motivations are sometimes unclear.
  • Aliera: Morrolan's cousin, Aliera is a strong and independent Dragaeran woman. She's skilled in combat and magic and has a complex relationship with Vlad.

These are just a few of the many memorable characters you'll encounter in the series. Each one adds depth and richness to the world, making the Vlad Taltos novels a truly immersive experience.

Reading Order of the Vlad Taltos Novels

Okay, this is where things can get a little tricky. As I mentioned earlier, the Vlad Taltos novels aren't published in chronological order. Steven Brust deliberately jumps around the timeline, offering different perspectives on Vlad's life. So, how do you tackle the series? Well, there are a few different approaches you can take.

Publication Order

Some people prefer to read the books in the order they were published. This is the way the series was originally presented, and it allows you to experience the story as Brust intended. Here's the publication order:

  1. Jhereg (1983)
  2. Yendi (1984)
  3. Teckla (1987)
  4. Taltos (1988)
  5. Phoenix (1990)
  6. Athyra (1993)
  7. Orca (1996)
  8. Dragon (1998)
  9. Issola (2001)
  10. Dzur (2003)
  11. Jhegaala (2008)
  12. Iorich (2010)
  13. Tiassa (2011)
  14. Hawk (2014)
  15. Vallista (2017)
  16. Khaavren Through the Ages (2018)
  17. Lyorn (2023)

Chronological Order

Others prefer to read the books in chronological order, following Vlad's life from beginning to end. This can provide a more linear and coherent understanding of the overall story. Here's the chronological order:

  1. Tiassa
  2. Jhereg
  3. Yendi
  4. Taltos
  5. Phoenix
  6. Athyra
  7. Orca
  8. Issola
  9. Dzur
  10. Teckla
  11. Jhegaala
  12. Iorich
  13. Hawk
  14. Vallista
  15. Lyorn
  16. Dragon
  17. Khaavren Through the Ages

The Recommended Order

Honestly, there's no right or wrong way to read the series. It really comes down to personal preference. However, many fans recommend starting with Jhereg and then following the publication order. This allows you to discover the world and characters as Brust intended, while still getting a sense of the overarching story. No matter which order you choose, you're in for a treat!

Where to Buy the Vlad Taltos Novels

Alright, so you're convinced and ready to dive into the Vlad Taltos novels. Where can you actually buy them? Luckily, they're pretty widely available.

  • Online Retailers: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other online bookstores are great places to find both physical and ebook versions of the books. Amazon often has the best prices and a wide selection.
  • Local Bookstores: Don't forget your local bookstores! Supporting them is always a good idea, and they can often order books for you if they don't have them in stock.
  • Used Bookstores: If you're looking to save some money, check out used bookstores or online marketplaces like eBay. You might be able to find some older editions at a discounted price.
  • Libraries: Of course, you can always borrow the books from your local library. This is a great way to try out the series before committing to buying them.

Whether you prefer physical books, ebooks, or audiobooks, you should have no trouble finding the Vlad Taltos novels at a retailer that suits your needs. Happy reading!

Final Thoughts

The Vlad Taltos novels by Steven Brust are a truly unique and rewarding fantasy series. With its intricate world-building, compelling characters, and witty writing style, it's a series that will keep you hooked from beginning to end. Whether you're a longtime fantasy fan or new to the genre, I highly recommend giving these books a try. Just remember to choose your reading order wisely (or not!) and get ready for a wild ride through the Dragaeran Empire. Trust me; you won't regret it. Happy reading, and may your adventures be filled with jheregs and plenty of jhereg!