My thanks to both NetGalley and the publisher Tor Publishing Group for an advanced copy of this fantasy novel about a city in wastes, the mysteries that surround it, and the threats that are brewing that will tear everything down around them.

I first became familiar with the works of Martha Wells through the science fiction stories about Wells' character Murderbot. A great series for those who haven't read them. I was aware that Wells had been writing fantasy for a while, but except for Witch King, was not familiar with them. City of Bones is an early book that has been updated with the author's seal of approval. I like reading older books by authors, to see how they have changed over the years, the way they develope characters and plot, and the way their writing styles have changed. Early books can be fun since authors don't have agents or editors looking over their shoulder saying, polls show your fans like this and that, so more of that. Reading this proves one thing, Martha Wells was firing on all cylinders right from the beginning, and has only gotten better.

The time might be a post-apocalyptic future, or maybe a world of its own. The city of Charisat sits in the middle of a Great Waste, with roads and steamwagons travelling to other cities under attack from pirates and other denizens of the desert, eager for plunder or for food, sometimes human. Most of these pirates are castoffs from the city, no longer able to afford the tokens for water or food in the very caste orientated system that rules the city. Khat is a Krismen, people who long ago were altered through breeding to survive in the wastes, able to eat things that would poison most humans, find water where none exists, and be considered a lesser being in the eyes of all. Khat and his partner survive on the finds of the Ancients, artifacts from the past that can be sold, but sold carefully as the government has laws that usually end in one punishment, death. Khat is hired by a mysterious group to ferry a party out into the wastes, to a Remnant, towers built by the Ancients, but the party is attacked by pirates, and soon Khat and his companions find themselves trapped in a game they don't understand, with possible destruction of everything as the reward.

A great stand-alone fantasy novel that is big, sprawling, full of fun, and lots of great ideas. One can see some of the ideas for Murderbot here. Khat likes his alone time, has a small group of people Khat will do anything for, and is sarcastic, rude and not afraid of authority. The world is interesting different, but sadly with the tiered system of a lot at the top, and extinction at the bottom hits very close to home. The book is big, but works well, Wells controls the pace, and though there might be one capture/escape too many the pacing of the novel is quite good, and pages fly by. The ideas are novel and new, the characters are well developed and fit well in the story. This is a bit of romance, but the characters don't let feelings get in their way nor the story. I enjoyed this quite a bit, and really would like to see more featuring these characters.

Recommended for fans, and for fantasy readers who just don't want another long trilogy to read. The world is different, and would probably be of interest to role players for the hierarchy of the society and the many game ideas that could come from it. Another great read from Martha Wells.

When I came across City of Bones by Martha Wells on Netgalley, I must confess I felt a bit confused. I had previously read the book, and at first, I assumed Tordotcom was merely republishing it. However, after some research I discovered that it had been updated and revised. While I cannot precisely identify the specific revisions (given that I read the book long time back), I can certainly attest that City of Bones still remains exceptional a second time around.

If I were to provide a single-word characterization of City of Bones, it would be ‘unique’, as it stands out in every conceivable manner. While the narrative unfolds in a post apocalyptic realm, unlike the majority of novels that plunge us into nascent societies struggling amidst chaos, power conflicts, and the process of building themselves up, the world depicted in City of Bones is already considerably advanced and resides on the cusp of scientific breakthroughs and exploration.

It is no secret that Martha Wells is the queen of world building and City of Bones is no different. Every aspect of this book is exquisitely distinctive, distinguishing itself from any other work I have encountered. Firstly, Wells skillfully delves into the themes of xenophobia, bigotry and prejudice, vividly portraying a tiered social system in which Kris (genetically engineered humans created by the Ancients) and humans belonging to lower tiers and non citizens face discrimination in a manner that is both captivating and unflinchingly honest.

Furthermore, City of Bones unveils a meticulously constructed law enforcement system that is both intricate and well-conceived, complete with its own hierarchies and ranks. This system provides a comprehensive portrayal of the society that Wells seeks to present to the reader. Moreover, the novel introduces a distinctive monetary system based on tokens, where the value is derived from work days—an innovative concept that adds another layer of originality to the narrative. Additionally, the political landscape and power struggles between the law enforcement entities and the scholars further contribute to the richness of the story, establishing a captivating dynamic within the world Wells has crafted.

Martha Wells skillfully portrays the Ancient Remnants, colossal structures left behind by the Ancients, with a vividness that captures their awe-inspiring presence. These remnants stand as a testament to a bygone era and contribute to the sense of wonder and mystery in the story. Equally remarkable is Wells’ imaginative depiction of the Waste, an expansive desert teeming with deadly creatures that she has ingeniously crafted. This perilous environment becomes a breeding ground for pirates who prey upon traders and relic hunters, adding an element of danger and excitement to the narrative. Lastly, the fringe and free cities, where the present-day humans reside, are described in such a way that their unique characteristics and role in the story are vividly brought to life. Wells’ skill in describing these various settings contributes to the immersive nature of the world she has created.

In City of Bones, the narrative centers around three key characters who drive the story forward. Firstly, there is Khat, a relic hunter belonging to the Kris lineage. Khat’s expertise lies in unearthing and recovering artifacts of historical significance. Secondly, we have Sagai, Khat’s companion in the perilous endeavor of relic hunting. Sagai, a non citizen from the lower tiers of the Patrician class, adds a unique perspective to the dynamic duo. Finally, we encounter Elen, a Warder possessing the ability to wield magic. Together, these three characters embark on a series of adventures trying to recover certain Ancient Relics that would shed light on Ancient Arcane magic and help scientific advancements in the current world, their paths intertwined as they navigate the challenges and mysteries that unfold in the captivating world of City of Bones.

The interplay among these three characters is masterfully crafted, evoking both heartwarming moments and gut-wrenching honesty. One aspect I particularly admired was Martha Wells’ skill in depicting the interactions between Khat and Elen, gradually developing their friendship with subtle hints of romance sprinkled throughout, without ever imposing it upon the reader. Initially, suspicion and prejudice stemming from their disparate backgrounds and past experiences serve as barriers between them. However, as time progresses, an unbreakable bond forms, transforming them into an inseparable duo who can genuinely claim to be true friends, despite the obstacles their society throws their way. This progression not only showcases the growth and evolution of their relationship, but also adds depth and authenticity to the narrative, making their connection all the more compelling and relatable.

The plot of City of Bones is ingeniously constructed, leaving readers in constant suspense and intrigue. Just when I believed I had figured out the direction the story was taking, Martha Wells skillfully steers it in a different and unexpected path. This element of surprise and unpredictability adds a delightful twist to the narrative, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The suspense woven throughout the story enhances the overall development, capturing the reader’s attention and heightening the sense of anticipation. Wells’ ability to maintain a captivating level of intrigue ensures that the story remains engaging and leaves a lasting impression on its audience.

In conclusion, City of Bones is one of the most unique stories written by Martha Wells I had the privileges of reading. While the book could serve as a satisfying standalone novel, it also holds great potential for expansion into a series. Personally, I would eagerly embrace the opportunity to delve back into the immersive world of City of Bones, as there is a wealth of possibilities waiting to be explored. The desire to revisit the intricate storytelling and engaging characters is a testament to the lasting impact of this remarkable tale, leaving me yearning for more.

My sincere thanks to Netgalley, Tordotcom and Martha Wells for providing me an advance copy of updated and revised version of City of Bones, giving myself to enjoy the story once more.

This eARC was given to me through Netgalley.com and I am providing an unbiased review.

This was a bit different than what I expected when I requested to read this book. Definitely set in a world not like earth, or possibly a dystopian future. Khat, our main character, is of a race that many in the larger city-kingdoms consider beneath them. However, he has certain 'skills' that allow him to find relics and seemingly instinctively find their purpose and value. He ends up somewhat partnered up with the apprentice of a high level magistrate, and discovers he is the product of a race the Ancients created to withstand not only the changes in the world, but the battle from others in a distant other-world.

I have always enjoyed Wells' books, and this is not not I would toss aside. I felt it started off somewhat slow, but I understand the character and world setting had to be built in order to make the story understandable. It is a stand-alone read, so no worries about having to read multiples, or worry about the order.

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Summary
Khat is a krismen, of a race created by the ancients to withstand the perils of the Waste. In the city Charisat, he's distrusted and disregarded - but still sought after for his knowledge of relics and lore. And that combination attracts danger.
Review

City of Bones was the second (or perhaps first) Martha Wells book I read, and I still think it’s the best. While Wells has been uneven (her Raksura books seem like they’re by a different author), this book is her writing at its absolute best, and I strongly recommend it. Note that while this edition is billed as the author’s preferred text, the differences between this and an earlier version are just minor stylistic edits; the story itself is unchanged.

Efficiently and effectively, Wells builds up a fascinating, complex world that we never quite see the full outlines of but that is nonetheless easy to follow. The emotional scale of the story is small, with a focus on just a few individuals, but the implicit scope is huge, with actions affecting the whole world. These are all hard things to pull off, and she does it beautifully here.

No book is perfect, and there’s a somewhat muddled portion in the late middle of the book, where things happen a bit too fast, and there are a few too many muddy motives floated about. And there are some red herrings that we could have done without – e.g., Khat’s attraction to one particular character has no real basis, and feels careless. But overall, this is a great book, and one whose taste will linger, even if the complexities of the plot do not.

If you’re already a Martha Wells fan, you’ll love this. If you’re not yet one, you’ll love this.
taphorosis.com/review/city-of-bones-martha-wells/

City of Bones was an okay fantasy read. I first discovered Martha Wells through the Murderbot books, and this is now the second standalone of hers (reissued) that I've read. I love Murderbot, but so far her other works have been, for me, simply okay and not mindblowing. City of Bones had an interesting premise and there was nothing I can pinpoint that was 'wrong' with it per se; it just didn't captivate me in any way, and I read through only half invested in the characters and action. Perhaps it's because I am always expecting a Murderbot-style of writing from her books, whereas it seems that her earlier works are far more 'traditional', without that dry humour I love from Murderbot. If you are a big fantasy fan, there is likely to be something of interest to you in City of Bones, but if you are only coming to the book as a fan of Murderbot, then there is a chance it won't tick all the boxes for you. I am giving in 3.5 stars.

My first experience with Martha Wells writing and it was something…
This books is very slow paced, a little bit too slow for me, and it was a little too complex to get into, there were many new terms, and there was a lot of world building that I didn’t quite grasp at first. You understand what’s going on but you don’t get the repercussions or the real meaning of what’s being sad or done.
About 40% into it, it changed! I was hooked!
The overall plot is very original and interesting, the characters are very complex, as well as their relationships, this books also has a lot of political plot, and the different social status of the characters is something very obvious and explored extensive.
I did find the ending a little bit bland in comparison to the book, I was hopping for a different ending, I think that nothing really changed. We have this whole story and at the end everything remains almost the same.. it was not a satisfying ending.
It probably deserves another star for the complexity and the immersive world building but for me it just didn’t make it to four stars..

I was surprised with how much I loved City of Bones!
I've only read the Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells which is one of my absolute favourite series so I was really excited to read this one.

I ended up really loving
It!
I'm pretty sure Martha Wells has become a favourite author of mine!

City of Bones was well written, I absolutely loved the world building and the characters were amazing.
I definitely highly recommend this book!

Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

if anyone absolutely knocks world building out of the park, it's Martha Wells. She creates such immersive, deep worlds with layers upon layers of history to get lost in. Occasionally I'll find the story gets lost in all of the world building information being thrown at the reader, and my attention would drift before getting pulled back in with the characters. The story starts slow, but the characters are immediately worth following, and the story is one so well rounded and satisfying that it's worth every minute. It's such a unique fantasy unlike anything else I've read, and I found I just had to know where it was going. I haven't read the original publication so I can't compare any updates or changes that have been made, but I know this is an epic fantasy in every sense of the word, and Martha Wells is a force to be reckoned with.

Great new book and universe by Martha Wells. I enjoy it a lot and will continue to explore this world for sure with her next entry!

I am really glad for the chance to read the revised version of this story. I loved the world and the characters, and even though this was a pretty slow burn fantasy, it gave a lot of time for the characters and world to develop complexities that kept the story really compelling. Such a wonderfully crafted story with characters I still find myself thinking about--Wells turns out gem after gem!

City of Bones was originally published in 1995 and its reprint is due to come out in September 2023. This is an updated and revised version, and I'll be basing my review on the galley copy I received from NetGalley. (This is a heads up in case you come into the review and immediately go, "Wait, that's not what I remember happening!" I'm not sure how different it is, because I've only read City of Bones once, years and years ago and I did not retain very much.)

Khat and his partner Sagai are semi-legal, semi-illegal relic traders. They would be completely legal scholars if they could but the city they are operating from has a very rigid social structure, they're both non-citizens, and Khat isn't even considered to be a person because his species (krismen) was created by Ancient Mages to survive in the post-apocalyptic Waste surrounding the city.

Khat and Sagai are approached by a Patrician who wants their help to find an Ancient Relic. (The Patrician turns out to be a young "Warder"--magic user--named Elen who is extremely clueless due to privilege and general naivete. Khat is not initially very impressed with her, but she slowly begins to show signs of developing a Clue. Elen's teacher believes that the relic is a key to keeping Warders from losing their minds, which is a hazard of the kind of magic they use. What it is...is not that.)

This leads to a quest to find the relic and find out what's for. It also leads to a veritable cascade of discoveries about the Ancients. Such as the part where the Ancients were at war with Eldritch Energy Beings from another world who kicked off their invasion by giving the Ancients lots of knowledge (that incidentally corrupts and drives mages crazy). And also the part where the Ancients were barely able to fight them off and at least one of the Eldritch Energy Beings survived and is attempting to let its friends on the other end of a dimensional gateway through.

The B and C plots involve Khat's dispute with a relic dealer he used to steal for, and One of The Reasons Why Khat is Like This. (Khat is definitely a template for Wells Angry Traumatized and Marginalized Characters. This is not to say he isn't his own character. He is absolutely distinct from later characters such as Moon from The Books of the Raksura and Murderbot from The Murderbot Diaries. He just has a lot in common with Moon, Murderbot, and even Kai from Witch King.)

The B plot is that the relic dealer wants him to go back to working for him, but Khat would prefer not to and is having to resort to choosing violence to express this since the dealer won't take no for an answer. The C plot is that there is a krismen embassy that is trying to find him. Our Protagonist is the only survivor of his lineage and his relatives want him to go home and have kids. (Unfortunately for them, Khat has decided that depriving his victim-blaming uncle of grand-niblings is the Best Revenge.)

This book is a bit like a cross between an Indiana Jones movie and a Road Warrior-type movie. It's an adventure novel with excellent worldbuilding and lots of moving pieces in the plot between the various plot threads. I liked the interactions between Khat and his partner, and his partner's family. I also liked Elen, but probably not as much as I liked Khat. (She needs to have a better sense of her privilege and to know more about the world outside her little Patrician bubble before I can really enjoy her as a character. As it was, as much as I liked her, because she's sweet I also wanted to smack her because she was clueless.)

Slower than my normal read but still excellent. I'm convinced everything Martha Wells writes just turns to gold.

This is very different than my normal fantasy, but doesn't take away from how well-written the story is and the dynamics that make it wonderful. I personally really struggle with slower pacing, so this took a lot of self-control to stay focused. It was worth it though.

There was no info-dumping yet you are perfectly aware and in the know of the world you are in. The characters are so interesting and complex, and far from perfect. It was different to read a fantasy post-apocalyptic story and I think I might need more of them!

Definitely worth the read, just make sure you're in the right mood.

This fantasy book was immersive, I found myself wondering about the characters when I wasn’t reading. The world-building was crafted in such a way that it didn’t feel like work to me. I loved the strong, interesting, not-quite-human protagonist. The side characters were also interesting and well developed. The pacing was excellent and the plot moved along well. This was a satisfying read and I loved it. I kinda wish she had written more stories set in this world!

I love Martha Wells, and I love the Murderbot Diaries. I had never read any works by Wells before I read All Systems Red (which I’ve now read multiple times, along with the rest of the series). Presumably due to her rise to stardom with Murderbot, City of Bones (one of her earliest published works) has been updated and revised and is being republished. Of course I had to read an advance reader copy once I got my hands on one.

While it is certainly not accurate to say that City of Bones is an early draft of Murderbot, it is a precursor. Some of the same elements are present. Main character Khat is the shunned and different outsider, with abilities and vulnerabilities that others don’t have. The anxiety is missing, but the need to make allies and even friends with unlikely companions is there. The author’s narrative style and storytelling ability has grown and matured.

I enjoyed reading City of Bones but also found it a bit slow moving. On the whole, I think I prefer the author’s science fiction to her fantasy. However, eventually I’ll get around to reading everything Martha Wells has written. If you are a Murderbot fan, don’t skip City of Bones just because it’s not part of the Murderbot series.

I read an advance reader copy of City of Bones from Netgalley.

Martha Wells never disappoints. I am so, so glad that her backlist is getting rereleased (and revised! So it's up to her current awesome writing abilities!) because I've been wanting to read them and they're hard to find. On to the review:

City of Bones is about Khat, who is a very Martha Wells main character, and by that I mean that he is a bit of an outsider, both from his own people and from the city he lives in, and has some past trauma which makes him angry, snarky and mistrustful of others. Literally my favorite character type, a thing I did not know before reading her books. This city is a city-state in a dry and barren world, centuries after a cataclysmic event burned up the seas and destroyed the ancient civilization. Khat is a krismen, a people descended from magically bio-engineered humans to be able to survive in the toxic desert wasteland that is most of the world now. They are mistrusted by ordinary humans for this ability, and the regular humans all live in tightly packed cities with strict water regulations for the poor. Khat and his partner, a scholar from another city-state and therefore almost as much of an outsider as Khat, trade in relics of the ancient peoples. It's a living, and it allows them the opportunity to get to see and study the fascinating ancient civilization without being in the scholars guild. Then Khat is hired to take a nobleman out to a ruin left from the ancients, and inadvertantly gets involved in a struggle for power and magic which goes up to the highest levels of the city. Literally, because the city is tiered, with the ruler living in lush tropical luxury at the top.

I just love Khat as a character. And I love the consistency with which he is characterized. There is something that happens towards the end of the book which in nearly every other story would have gone a certain way, but Martha Wells doesn't force her characters to change to fit society, and readers, expectations and it works so well.

The world building is also fascinating. The current state of the world is grim, but people persevere as they do, and adapt, sometimes well and sometimes ruthlessly. The glimpses of understanding we get of the ancient world adds depth to the current state of things. but there is a huge amount people do not know about them, which from an archealogical standpoint rings very true. Most of what Khat and his partner trade in are pottery shards, tile pieces and bits of metal. What they, and we as readers, know about the ancients is so small compared to what there is to know, but watching things unfold and slowly getting to glimpse more is riveting.

The only downside is that this is a standalone. I know! Usually I would not complain about that, there are so few. But I love the world and the characters and while I am glad this particular story of theirs is complete, I would love to read about their next adventures.

Overall the book was okay, but contained more potential than actualization. You can tell it's one of Martha Wells's earlier works. The world building is good, though I would love to see more, the story is better, but the characters failed to make me really love them. Khat's past with the Enclave would have been a much more interesting story than him getting dragged into royal schemes that he keeps failing to run away from when presented with the opportunity. I really want to read the non-existant prequel.

I hadn’t read old Martha Wells and my goodness has she evolved in her career and her writing. Very cool repackaging. I didn’t read the old so can’t compare the text itself (revisions, etc).

Thank you to NetGalley and Tor for the arc.

I requested a digital copy in order to sample the prose on my phone (since I don't have a eReader) before requesting a physical copy for review. My review will be based on the physical ARC I read (if I qualify)