The Darkness That Comes Before (The Prince of Nothing, #1)
The Darkness That Comes Before (The Prince of Nothing, #1)
Book Brief
BetaThe Darkness That Comes Before (The Prince of Nothing, #1)
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2005608
Novel • Fiction
Earwa • Medieval Fantasy World
2005
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Darkness That Comes Before by R. Scott Bakker is the first book in the Prince of Nothing series. It follows a diverse cast navigating a world of religious conflict, political intrigue, and ancient prophecies. Central figures include a philosopher-warrior, a mercenary, and a prostitute, each with unique struggles and roles in an unfolding dark adventure.
Reviews & Readership
24,063 ratings
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Mixed feelings
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Review Roundup
R. Scott Bakker's The Darkness That Comes Before is a rich, intellectually stimulating fantasy novel praised for its deep philosophical themes and intricate world-building. However, some readers find the dense prose and complex narrative challenging. This ambitious work excels in character development but may not appeal to those seeking a straightforward epic fantasy.
Who Should Read The Darkness That Comes Before (The Prince of Nothing, #1)?
Readers who enjoy intricate, philosophical fantasy novels with complex characters and a dark, immersive world will appreciate R. Scott Bakker’s The Darkness That Comes Before. Fans of George R. R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire series or Frank Herbert’s Dune will find similar depth and ambition.
24,063 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The author, R. Scott Bakker, has described The Darkness That Comes Before as being influenced by his academic background in philosophy, particularly the works of Friedrich Nietzsche and Emmanuel Levinas.
The Darkness That Comes Before draws from real-world historical events as inspiration, including the Crusades and the rise and fall of ancient empires, adding depth and a sense of realism to the fantastical setting.
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R. Scott Bakker initially conceived the world of Earwa, where The Prince of Nothing series is set, during his years as a graduate student, intending it to reflect an intricate and complex civilization.
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608
Novel • Fiction
Earwa • Medieval Fantasy World
2005
Adult
18+ years
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