While we have seen the Palleseen as occupying conquerors in City of Last Chances, we've never seen these people engage in open warfare against their enemies. It is not a pretty sight. House of Open Wounds shows us the immense scope of the horrors that the Palleseen unleash against their foes in pursuit of their elusive 'perfection' and the horrors set against them in turn. The book's focus is on a small crew of misfits and outcasts manning an experimental hospital station who are tasked with dealing with the shocking casualties that these clashes produce, through magical, religious, and other means not sanctioned by the Palleseen authorities. Through misadventure and misfortune upon compounding misfortune, this group of barely tolerated people will be put through the wringer and find themselves in a situation where the full might of the army is threatening to crash down on them.

Adrian Tchaikovsky has d0ne it again with this book, an incredible and weird mix of M*A*S*H, Catch 22, and some of the wildest fantasy this side of reality that just works. I cannot describe how this novel makes it all work, but it does so and it does so with flying colors. Come for the premise, stay for the characters, the twists and turns, and the brilliant resolution that had me smiling the entire time I was typing this review.

In this captivating read, the author masterfully weaves a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. Through a blend of richly developed characters and a meticulously crafted plot, the book offers a unique exploration of its central themes, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the story's depth and complexity. The narrative is paced perfectly, balancing moments of intense action with thoughtful reflection, ensuring that readers are hooked from the first page to the last. The author's ability to evoke emotion and create a vivid, immersive world is truly remarkable, making this book a must-read for anyone looking for an exceptional literary experience.

Beyond its compelling storyline, the book stands out for its insightful commentary on the human condition, weaving philosophical questions into the fabric of its narrative. The author's skillful use of language not only enriches the text but also elevates the reader's experience, offering new perspectives on familiar themes. Whether it's the intricate dynamics of relationships, the exploration of identity, or the confrontation with ethical dilemmas, this book tackles complex issues with sensitivity and intelligence. It's a testament to the power of storytelling to illuminate the nuances of life, making it a valuable addition to any book lover's collection. Regardless of genre, this is a work that resonates on multiple levels, affirming the enduring impact of well-crafted literature.

Awesome! I mean it Tchaikovsky right!! Very interesting story, good world building, crazy imagination! I highly recommended it!

Another well thought out and deep book by Adrian Tchaikovsky. In a world slowly being beaten to death by the Pal Sway, we are thrust into the thick of a medical tent manned by the rebels, dregs and conscripted enemies of the Palleseen. Into this hodgepodge of forbidden magics is trust a god smuggler, Maric Jack. He comes complete with his own thorn in the side, his God. as well as some other gods he's rescued along the way. The humor, chaos and deep views of an authoritarian regime out to "save" the world. Like many of this author's books it makes you think while you are enjoying it. I highly recommend this book and thank Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read it.

I wonder if those who haven't read <i>The City of Last Chances</i> will struggle with the world, or if it matters?

The Pallesseen Sway and the war they have to bring perfection to the world(s) is now explored via actual war. Our POV is those serving in the medical unit, where they can heal in, well, weird ways. Into this comes Yasnic and his box of gods. Literal gods. Who can still do god-like things.

The biggest problem for me is that the world is so richly built that at times, less would have been more. And conversely, there are things that we could have had more of, in the ways we did in the earlier book, learning about the different cultures.

eARC provided by publisher via Netgalley.

Even though this is book 2, you can read it as a standalone (which is the situation I am in)
I am a Tchaikovsky fan and happy to pick up anything he creates - even a book that is nearly 600 pages. This book focuses on
Yasnic, a one-time priest, healer and rebel, He is sent to war and is placed with a medical unit that harkens back to M*A*S*H*.
It's a motley crew forced into service to an empire that believes in it's own righteousness! Set in the 19th century, the themes are quite contemporary. As described, it's a companion novel to Adrian Tchaikovsky’s award-winning fantasy novel City of Last Chances
If you are fantasy fan there are ghouls, ghosts, magic, demons. Truly amazing! #adriantchaikovsky #houseofopenwounds
#bloomsbury

As we read about the war between the Loruthi and the Pallleseen worlds are built that use magic as a fuel for weapons, to power objects, and to alter what is. We can be boiled down, decanted, to our essence, and used to fuel objects. Trying to describe this world is like attempting to make sense of a Hieronymus Bosch painting. The story we have here unravels in hell, and at the same time, these characters can be affected by demons who come from elsewhere. The start of the book gives us a lexicon to know the who and what we will then read covering the nations, people, gods, and demons we will be introduced to while learning about what happens in a Field Hospital during the war this book is set in. Characters are richly developed and as we get to see them interact in their jobs and with each other the story draws the reader in deeper and deeper until the conclusion.