A chat with Jimmy Nutts, A.P. Canavan, and Steven Erikson

[@jakebishop7822]

So this is literally a quest fantasy group. We got Professor Fireball, who is obviously a mage. Dr Fantasy. Well he's a doctor, so obviously the healer, and the scholar Jimmy Nutts, the wrestler . The barbarian who can crush enemies. (The more civilized, erudite barbarian) And Erikson. Who is obviously a bard. Who are basically tellers of stories at there hearts.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Healer and scholar -- I'll take that! This way, I can mostly avoid monsters and such while the barbarian and the mage take care of business and the bard sings about it.

[@nilanniruthan]

I like how the seating arrangement is from least clothed to most.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

If you had been there, you would have been all the way on the left side!

[@alexnieves]

Pretty awesome that y'all met up like this. So fun!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks, Alex! It was absolutely wild to meet these people in "real" life. And they all have legs!

[@Paul_van_Doleweerd]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy That's probably why AP had those sunglasses. 😎

[@ves138]

THE NUTTGOD IS HUGE Seriously this video is LEGENDARY!! This feels alnost like an Avengers assemble moment booktube edition

[@thefantasynuttwork]

😂

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I guess that makes Jimmy the Hulk? Possibly Thor. I am most definitely Doctor Strange.

[@LocallyConstantDuck]

Genuinely disconcerting to see that these people have legs

[@Jeff-dr3eu]

I agree - also strange to see Steve drinking something other than classic Coca Cola

[@Isaiah_McIntosh]

A betrayal I tell you.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Ha ha! It looks a bit surreal to me too.

[@buckfozos5554]

Wow, this is Nutts you were able to Chase down Canavan and Erikson.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Ha ha! It really was Nutts in the best possible way!

[@vascosaraiva9980]

Wow! This is a convergence of a scale never before witnessed!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Vasco! It certainly felt like a convergence to me!

[@fantasticphilosophy181]

Damn this is fun! (But who is that guy that sounds like A.P.?)

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

That was A.P.'s cousin, P.P. Hee hee! I'm glad you enjoyed the video!

[@Johanna_reads]

Can’t help but add to the many comments you need to reply to, Philip! 😄 I’ll keep this one short though. This was such a wonderful discussion with a great exchange of insights between the four of you. I recently reread the prologue to Gardens of the Moon, and the words sparkled off the page. Loved the thoughts on meaning in great ideas, construction of themes, moral perspectives, and reimagining fantasy conventions!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Beautifully said, Johanna! Isn't it amazing how much richer the prologue (and the entire series, really) becomes on a second read because you're catching foreshadowing and embedded themes and references? Just amazing. And answering your comments is a joy!

[@Severian1]

This is a convergence of epic proportions! Never thought I'd see this.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I still can't believe it happened. It feels a little unreal now that I'm home. Good thing there's video evidence!

[@RoxanaMagdaD]

Oh gods, I love you guys! I was hoping to see you all together in a vid but seeing it happen brings me so much joy!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I'm so happy that this brought you joy, Rox! It was an indescribably beautiful experience. I may be biased, but people who read fantasy, and especially Malazan, just seem wonderful to me. Hugs right back to you!

[@RoxanaMagdaD]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy always kind and sweet, Philip, thanks so much for the kind words :)

[@bryson2662]

This made me incredibly happy. Thank you everyone!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Bryson! I'm so glad you enjoyed the video.

[@Paul_van_Doleweerd]

A rogue, a warrior, a wizard and a bard walk into a bar...

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

A.P. is rather roguish, isn't he?

[@Paul_van_Doleweerd]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy A little bit of Apto showing through. 😆

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@Paul_van_Doleweerd Is there a difference between A.P. and Apto?

[@Paul_van_Doleweerd]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Check and see if you still have your wallet...

[@Paul_van_Doleweerd]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Although, to be fair, that thumbnail is a bit of a gallery of rogues 😉

[@CounsellorofMoonsSpawn]

This meetup is more epic than the alliance in MoI. Also, be careful, Philip. It is obvious that AP has infiltration plans with his new haircut.

[@RoxanaMagdaD]

next thing we know he's wearing glasses too, and the tweed jacket and boy then it will get complicated :) Nemesis vs nemesis, matching powers :)

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Professor Fireballs can try all he likes, but in the end, there can be only one Doctor Fantasy!

[@RoxanaMagdaD]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy you'll soon find yourself having another version of you as nemesis. Who would win, in an I against I situation? What are Professor Fireball's true interests when trying to achieve this new identity? :P

[@barrilrayder]

Epic convergence of ascendants, indeed, and a elder god, of course. This was fantastic. RIP AP´s ponytail, going thorugh hood´s gates at this very moment.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Alas, the ponytail has indeed entered Hood's realm! Fortunately, Professor Fireballs lost none of his wit with it.

[@benjaminmolina3456]

This is fantastic! Here I thought AP was a centaur. That Ayn Rand comment, you where hoping for a rant weren't you? Thank you very much all of you.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Ha ha! A.P. transforms into a centaur only when the moon is full. Steven Erikson knew we were going to say ridiculous things, but none of us knew what we were going say. I loved his reaction!

[@rupertcrump1312]

What an epic convergance of wonderful and talented people! This is so awesome thank you for doing it all of you!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It was a long awaited and much anticipated convergence for me, for sure. Cheers, Rupert!

[@a.fleming4211]

I think we've all been waiting for the inevitable in person meeting of you and AP. Can't wait to be able to watch the video later on in all of it's glory!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks! I hope it will be the first of many meetings with A.P. and all the other great people I met.

[@vinodhchincholi3698]

This is great! Seeing all of you nerds outdoors is a bit jarring 😆

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks, Vinodh! It was surreal for us too, but mostly so cool!

[@itscatoclock]

I love this Philip. It must have been fun meeting everyone in person and just being outside. This was a nice suprise.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks, Ibi! It was incredibly fun and so meaningful for me.

[@PetrikLeo]

What a CONVERGENCE!!! So glad and envious y'all got to meet in person!!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Petrik! I very much hope to have the chance to meet you in person someday too. Please let me know if you're ever anywhere near New York City!

[@Jeff-dr3eu]

This is awesome - so cool to see you all together in the real world. You all look great, enjoy the sun and have a few flagons of ale for me!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Jeff! It was an amazing time.

[@detreed]

What a wonderful video! Really enjoyed this talk. Thanks for recording this!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Chris! I'm happy that you enjoyed the video!

[@sethulakovic3722]

Hi Philip. Hope you fellas have a fun convention. Just remember, if there is a no swimming sign that there are dinosaurs in the water. 😁

[@MagusMarquillin]

Yay, Flamingos!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I stayed away from all large bodies of water just in case. It was so much fun, Seth! Cheers!

[@ACriticalDragon]

Philip, thanks for recording this. It was so great to hang out with you and Jimmy at the conference. I had such a great time.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Hello, my Fremesis! It was more wonderful than I can convey in words to meet with you and also our other friends. Such beautiful memories!

[@ACriticalDragon]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Well jet lag and work will probably kick my butt this week, but I will definitely have to have more conversations with my nemesis. Thank you so much, my friend.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

I love you guys

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@thefantasynuttwork Right back at you, Jimmy!

[@liviathemalazanpotatonoob5014]

The convergence of convergences! You have made my day better! Should I admit I watched the first 2 minutes at least 5 times, just because it was too damn funny? 😅🤣 Thank you for sharing this with us!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Ha ha! Thanks, Livia! We weren't sure what we were going to say when we started recording. The task was to say outrageous things about Steven Erikson, but A.P. and Jimmy were giggling too much to be completely effective, thus leaving me to drop the bombshell "revelation".

[@liviathemalazanpotatonoob5014]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy the Ayn Rand line was hilarious and it was not scripted, I think? I saw how it took the other two by surprise, they had the same sudden reaction. So good!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@liviathemalazanpotatonoob5014 Yes, we had no idea what we were going to say when we hit record. We were just going to have each of them appear one at a time!

[@robpaul7544]

Noooooo! The ponytail is gone. 😭😝 Awesome to see people getting together in real life again, hope you're having a great time over there 😄

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It was more wonderful than I can express, Rob. Alas for the ponytail, though. Someone must compose a lament! Perhaps Brash Phluster will be up to the task . . .

[@Paul_van_Doleweerd]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I still have mine, there can be only one...

[@robpaul7544]

@@Paul_van_Doleweerd I still have mine as well.. *highlander theme song intensifies *

[@Paul_van_Doleweerd]

@@robpaul7544 *straps on metal neck protector*

[@billyalarie929]

I like how Steve was cool with coming in at a delayed clip like that.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

He was unbelievably cool in every way.

[@jackhill5762]

I always appreciate how each of you are so interested in and respectful of what the others have to say! Thank you for all the entertainment you guys have given me. It's great to see everyone together in person.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Jack! It was unbelievable to meet those fine people and many others.

[@epicgamer2727]

This is a very wholesome video glad everyone got to meet up in person!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks so much! It was the convergence I had been hoping for!

[@FIT2BREAD]

Fantastic episode. This represents so well all of what I love about BookTube. Great video

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you! BookTube really is about the fellowship -- well said!

[@tylerblack301]

My first thought was NO F**KING WAY!!! Second thought was WHERES ALAN?!! I hope you guys had a great time at the conference! I’m sure it’s created some amazing memories.

[@TheLibraryofAllenxandria]

Allen was there the next day!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It was amazing, Tyler! Also, there will be one more little video in which it's possible your second thought will be answered!

[@alynam82]

I was going to say the same as someone else, what a treat this was. Looking at the picture thumbnail, it was either a really good editing job, or these guys are all hanging together! This was fun to watch, it seems like you had a blast chillen with your buds

[@Rogue_VI]

I certainly thought the thumbnail was photoshopped at first. In fact, I was wondering why an older picture of AP was used because it was clear that his hair was short.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I don't have nearly enough talent to photoshop a thumbnail that well, though my daughter could probably figure it out . . . But I'm happy to say it was all real (though I keep pinching myself to make sure)!

[@Paul_van_Doleweerd]

All you needed was Walker: Booktube Ranger® to join you.

[@TheLibraryofAllenxandria]

Heck yes! I joined the next day! Wife and I were at Busch Gardens this particular day!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

The BookTube Ranger joined us, and there's video evidence . . . somewhere.

[@tovx76]

This is so epic! Super happy you guys had this opportunity to get together in person!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It really felt epic! Cheers, Drew!

[@TheBookishMom]

How fun4 was this meetup! Y'all look like you had just the best time!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Jessie! It really was fantastic.

[@anaaneiros5502]

This is soooooo cool. I'm really happy you could meet up.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Ana! It was fantastic.

[@JolienReads]

😅What is this?! So much fun! Great that you all got to meet eachother in person.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Jolien! It really was amazing to meet them and so many other wonderful people.

[@JohanHerrenberg]

This looks like the Malazan Conference of Yalta or Potsdam... I enjoyed seeing and hearing the four of you all together in the (sometimes bare) flesh. Very special!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Please note that Doctor Fantasy at least wore a jacket, though Florida is too hot for tweed. Cheers, Johan!

[@TheNapoleon86]

Can't believe I missed seeing this! Gold! And you got Steven Erikson there as well. My smile won't fade in a few hours now.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It was pretty surreal there for a while for me too!

[@TheNapoleon86]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Can't believe you had Erikson there. You lucky people! Working like mad on my channel. Thumbnails in the making, decent ones. Then there's a new program I need to learn to navigate... Well, one day I might be on a podcast or live-call with you. Just give me another lifetime here. :D

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@TheNapoleon86 The hard work will pay off, I’m sure!

[@TheNapoleon86]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I hope so. I'm on it, sir!

[@JD-td8kl]

Well, shiver me timbers. This is awesome! The best part of this video is that we finally got to become acquainted with A.P's shins.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

The shins in all their glory! Fortunately for you, I spared you by wearing jeans.

[@JD-td8kl]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Haha! Were there any other interviews recorded, Philip?

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@JD-td8kl One more short video - it was a fun one, and I’ll release it this Saturday!

[@Jabberwhorl_Cronstadt]

The jolt of excitement when I saw the thumbnail and watched the intro was really wonderful. Thanks guys!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I’m so glad you enjoyed this, Jake!

[@jeevzssp]

This must have been so much fun, Philip. So happy for you.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Jeevan! It was such a blast!

[@iCocaColaZombieGod]

Yes! Fantastic that you guys were able to meet up, this is surreal

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It was surreal and wonderful for me too!

[@leilastackleather9927]

So wonderful to see you all. I didn't realize how much I wanted to see you all together. Meant so much. You must do this again. Hunker down somewhere, and talk.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Leila! I very much hope to do it again!

[@carolynsmith5737]

Love this! Next time you meet up with Mr. Erickson, ask if he has ever considered doing a kickstarter to rerelease his books in hardcover or if his publisher has considered doing a rerelease in hardcover? I’m just curious as I would like to get all the books in hardcover. My local bookstore recently received all the hardcovers (used copies), but when I inquired on pricing for the set, they wanted in the $700 range. I love Malazan but that was slightly more than I’m (or my husband) is willing to pay.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It's an issue, for sure. It seems the only Malazan books that are readily available are the mass market paperbacks. I much prefer the trade paperbacks, and it would be a dream to own the Subterranean Press editions. I'm glad you enjoyed the video, Carolyn!

[@JJ_Hunter]

Awesome! Just so happens I plan on finishing my first read of Malazan this weekend. So I’ll jump back onto this video tomorrow night. Have a great day :).

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Excellent! My best wishes to you for the end of the read, JJ!

[@afantasybabble6222]

This is awesome. Hope yall had a great time.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you! It was absolutely incredible!

[@brush2canvas849]

NICE and a surprise indeed! Looks like you had tons of fun. So I have no idea how, between the sun, the partying and the gaming, you actually found the time to film a video.😁

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Ha ha! It was actually really hard to find time to film. There's one more little video, however . . . Coming soon to a channel near you!

[@brush2canvas849]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Ooooh! The suspense! And it most likely will make me even more jealous.😁

[@derrisreaditbefore]

OH. MY. GOD! THIS was the super secret project?! I am gobsmacked. I can't imagine how much of a good time you were all having while you were planning this, and I sincerely hope you're all wringing the most fun possible out of being able to just hang out with each other. Thank you for sharing with us!!!!!!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Derri! It was incredible. Just incredible. Yes, this was the super secret project! Hee hee!

[@Mahalleinir]

Great, very enjoyable conversation. I took a chance and watched it through even though I haven’t finished the BoTF yet (taking a break at the midway point), so I’m glad the spoilers were rather light!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I’m glad you enjoyed it, Ahmad! “Light spoilers” is a good way to put it, I think. Perhaps even “vague spoilers”. Cheers!

[@jeroenadmiraal8714]

Lovely party, pity I wasn't invited. Haha, just joking. You guys dropped a bomb on KZbin with this, Philip. Great to see you all together like this. Also quite scary to see AP from a different angle.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Yes! It was probably weird seeing all of us with our legs showing, right? It was an incredible experience, Jeroen. Cheers!

[@JoffJk]

I laughed when Jimmy's sneaks in his closer in. Great conversation thanks for give an insight into what must have been a great time.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Jimmy cracked me up with that one too! It was definitely an amazing time.

[@BookishChas]

So awesome that you all got to meet up in person. I didn’t know ICFA was a thing. Excellent!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks, Chas! It was really an amazing experience.

[@IowaJay]

So this was one of the surprise videos that you have been teasing us about! Great discussion - and thanks for keeping it free from spoilers!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Yes! It was very hard not to spill the beans! I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@neverwinterknight3062]

What a treat to find this surprise on the channel today! Happy to see you all got together in person. Was that the first time getting together face-to-face for some of you? Great to hear the conversation too. As always, insightful and entertaining. Thanks for sharing and enjoy the rest of the conference!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you! The only ones who had met in person before (many, many times) were A.P. and Steven Erikson. It was absolutely fantastic to be able to meet and chat for hours and days.

[@matthewclarke-venters1303]

Great to see you guys finally met in-person. Looks like you're all having a blast! Although, I must say - I miss A.P's hair.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Alas, the passing of the ponytail! Fortunately, we have plenty of videos in which it lives on! Cheers, Matthew!

[@CircesBooked]

What an amazing opportunity to meet in person with people you have interacted with for so long! That is incredible! I am very happy for you! I had to skip around in order to not get too many clues on the series since I'm only on Book 2, but what a collection of minds!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Ercy! There were no major spoilers, but we did wander near spoiler territory at times. It really was an incredible experience to meet those great people.

[@TsutsunKun]

Thank you guys for this and thank you Steven for the awesome debates and interactions with the fans !

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Steven Erikson is truly gracious to his fans with his time. I’m glad you enjoyed the video!

[@esmayrosalyne]

Well, most of this convo went a bit over my head as I stil haven't embarked on my Malazan journey, but it was just so much fun to see you all chat in real life! Truly brings a smile to my face to see you all together. Hope you had a wonderful time (though from watching this, I am guessing it's safe to say you did, haha). All the best!! :)

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Esmay! It was truly a wonderful time. Just a beautiful experience with some lovely people who all love great stories.

[@karolovesbooks2233]

So great! Have fun guys! ButI keep getting distracted by AP's hair 😂🙊

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Alas, the ponytail is no more! I'm glad you enjoyed the video!

[@terryking3232]

Gosh it’s noisy there. (Says me living in a small town in rural Australia.) Interesting chat, guys. Glad you could all meet up!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Orlando is crawling with tourists, hotels, and cars! And a few alligators, though I didn't meet any of those. Cheers, Terry!

[@shulgi582]

>"We shouldn't talk about Malazan" >talk about Malazan anyway Classic move.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Of course, you knew we would have to talk about Malazan. Who were we kidding?

[@shelfunstable]

What a lovely notification to wake up to! This was a great chat and beautiful to see you all together. The greatest convergence.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks so much, Amanda! It was an amazing time!

[@safinan8008]

Wow 😮 what are great video with Steven Erikson!! Fantastic, how was to meet Steven Erikson?? Happy reading to you!! 😊📖🦋

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It was absolutely amazing, Safina! Steven Erikson is a wonderful person. Happy reading to you too!

[@jona2486]

Phillip, this was incredible! I was grinning the whole video. I hope you guys had a blast. Thanks for making this!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I’m so glad you enjoyed it, Jon! It was incredible to be there!

[@thisandthat418]

What a fun surprise and an absolute treat for us all 😀

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Alison! I'm glad it was fun for you!

[@codydow3288]

This is so awesome watching you guys all together! I never comment , just silently enjoy all the content lol. But just felt compelled to say this is great! Keep up the great work, love the Dear Doctor Fantasy thing you have going on , can’t wait till the next episode

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks so much, Cody! I appreciate the comment, but there's also nothing wrong with just watching and/or listening. My best to you!

[@mich7008]

I loved this but wow what a tease!! Only 26 minutes!! Encore! Encore!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It was incredibly hard to find a moment to record. However, there will be one more very short video from the conference, probably during the next The Week That Was on Saturday. Cheers, Michael!

[@mich7008]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I look forward to it Sir!!

[@timidalchemist8475]

Malazan has taken over my current obsession and has made me love it furthermore knowing erikson being an anthropologist. His work on Malazan (including ICE) is unmatched in fantasy and the way he ties stuff well in each book is amazing.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I agree completely!

[@benofavalon7121]

Wow, what a treat, guys! Looking forward to this one! 😃

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks! It was a ton of fun for me!

[@roxieswonderousworld]

I really enjoyed this discussion. Makes me want to dive back into Malazan. I left off in book 2 of Deadhouse Gates. I'm just taking my time with the series. I remember most of what I read lol. It's a challenging read for me because of all the details but such a good read. I know this is one of those series worth reading.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I have definitely found it worth reading, Roxie. Of course, there is no hurry, and there is no reason to rush an experience that can be savored. My very best to you!

[@claudiaiovanovici7569]

I don't think I have ever seen a group of people lacking in acting skills more than you guys put together :))) Although you, Phillip, were the most credible one. It was fun to see you all together. And I must confess I felt a pinch of envy as well :P

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Ha ha! I don’t think any of us will ever be winning an Oscar. Someday, I very much hope to have a similar meeting with you and so many other lovely people we interact with here on KZbin. I hope MalazCon will happen!

[@claudiaiovanovici7569]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy That would be great! I have seen this idea of a MalazCon around, but I have no knowledge of anyone attempting to make it happen. Do you know anything about that?

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@claudiaiovanovici7569 As far as I know, no one is actively trying to organize a MalazCon. Unfortunately, many of us fantasy readers are dreamers but not practical people who know how to organize big events. I think it would first take someone with a certain skill set who is willing to get the ball rolling. Not to mention a lot of money.

[@claudiaiovanovici7569]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I have been trying to get Steve here, to Romania, since 2019. I had it all set to go for the spring of 2020, but then we got the pandemic. Now that the pandemic has eased, there is war at our borders and who knows how that situation will develop? But unless the aliens attack or the dinosaurs return, I will do flips and pirouettes and I will get Steve here, if not this year, then the next. Now I don't know about the lots of money needed or the skill set, but I am willing to try and to learn as I go. If I can get him here for a bookstore tour, then perhaps I can try to upgrade for some kind of MalazCon event. I guess I can keep that in mind....

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@claudiaiovanovici7569 Please keep me posted, Claudia, and I will do everything I can to promote the event (if it happens) through my channel. I’m sure others will do the same.

[@TheBlueOwlX]

This is so cool! Would love to hang out with you guys

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It would be so awesome to be able to meet everyone here on BookTube at a conference!

[@curtjarrell9710]

For so long I've heard so much about Malazan, so...I ordered a copy of Gardens of the Moon. The bit about a soul trapped inside a poppet piqued my interest. I may like it, I may not but I'll have a sample on hand to examine as the spirit moves me. If I need to I'll thank you later.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I hope you’ll enjoy it, Curt!

[@chadia25]

As many have said, this was really awesome. It felt like 3 fanboys and their idol. 😅 I loved it.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

That's a fair characterization, Chadia! It was a wonderful time.

[@milom5030]

What a delight to watch!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Milo! I'm happy you enjoyed it!

[@slidenaway]

I'm only 2 minutes in but HOLY SHIT WHAT IS THIS!!! Regardless of what you talk about, what the rest of the video is, this is insanely cool and not only am I glad simply for the 4 of you, that you got to meet up and hang out in person (which seems like such a much bigger deal now than it was 2 years ago... right?) but that we get to see it!! LETS GOOOOOOOOOOO

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Ha ha! Thanks so much, Chris! It was truly an epic experience! There's a bit more to come too.

[@slidenaway]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Awesome! Hopefully that one is more spoiler free... I actually had to stop this one about 3 minutes in, when Jimmy (the Nutt guy) started talking about why re-reading the series is so meaningful... I get that he didn't go into detail, but he said enough that I had to stop immediately, and I've been thinking about what I heard way too much since then, and I hate it!! Not saying I'm mad at him or any of you, just saying :) I'll have to come back to this one after I finish The Crippled God (about 2/3 into Reaper's Gale atm)

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@slidenaway No worries! I don’t think he, or any of us, gave away anything important. That said, it’s probably best to avoid the rest if you want to steer clear of anything even remotely resembling a spoiler. The next video from the conference is short and won’t spoil anything at all. Cheers!

[@slidenaway]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy dunno if you'll see this but I did finish the series and came back to watch the rest of this! I probably overreacted earlier, but the issue was when Jimmy said something (around 3 minutes in) about trying to figure out or keep in mind who are the good guys and who are the bad guys, and talking about how much we get wrong before reading the ending -- basically just how much your perspective on everything changes when you get to the end. My mind went wild trying to think about what that could mean, like could the Crippled God actually be the HERO of the story??? Obviously that's ridiculous, and I'll take this one on the chin -- Jimmy didn't say anything spoiler-y, I just have an overactive and overanalytical mind. Oh well :) Anyway it was great to hear the rest of the convo, I'm super jealous that you get to hang out with those guys, all 3 of them!! Savor the feeling, it's an amazing thing you got to do :)

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@slidenaway Thank you, Chris! In my book, an analytical mind is a mind being put to good use, so absolutely no worries. I’m happy you finished the series - congratulations!!!

[@osoisko1933]

Truly a convergence of the mighty.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

The mighty happy, anyway! 😁

[@RedFuryBooks]

So cool to see a non-Zoom collaboration!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It was really cool to be able to speak face to face. Cheers!

[@bryson2662]

Wow, this is so cool. Wish I could be there

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It was awesome, Bryson! I hope we'll all meet at a future MalazCon!

[@Rogue_VI]

Very cool discussion. Any chance that you got to see Allen while you were in Florida? That would be a pretty fun hangout. Regarding the idea about what is the definition of Sci-fi... Moid at Media Death Cult says that if you think it's sci-fi, then it's sci-fi. I don't know that I agree with that 100%, but it's not a bad idea. As Jimmy said, Ganoes is one of my favorite characters in Malazan.

[@TheLibraryofAllenxandria]

Heck yes, I was there! Just the following day!

[@Rogue_VI]

@@TheLibraryofAllenxandria Yay! I am assuming (hoping) that there is video of that as well.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks! Let's just say that I couldn't resist getting out my phone when Allen was present. Perhaps there's a little video that I'll include in the next The Week That Was . . .

[@johanjoseph4802]

I mean. Wow man. This is such a great surprise 💚

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Surprise! I'm glad you enjoyed this one, Johan!

[@LeeKennison]

I am hoping to hear the true story on AP's ponytail. I suspect AP was in a drunken stupor, which Dr Fantasy took advantage to cut it off, knowing the ponytail was the true source of APs power. Dr Fantasy then used his superior mind controlling power, knowing AP no longer had the protection of the ponytail, to convince AP that he chose to cut it off himself. As an added bonus Dr Fantasy convinced AP to wear shorts in the extreme closeup angle of the camera shot. Brilliant. Dr Fantasy triumphs again.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Doctor Fantasy always triumphs, just as good always prevails over evil! Hee hee! Thanks, Lee.

[@LeeKennison]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I was just happy to see that the Nemesis Wars seems to have gotten past the slog phase. Although those less discerning than myself may have missed this completely. By the way, those other two secondary characters in this story had an admirable performance. The mystery now is whether they are in on Dr Fantasy's brilliant maneuver.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@LeeKennison They may think they are . . .

[@ravenbellebooks5665]

This video made my day! Love it!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I’m happy you enjoyed it! 😄

[@nl3237]

Woooow! What a treat!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I'm so glad you enjoyed it!

[@kifonis]

wow :o great to see you guys like this. have fun!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Professor Trip! It was an amazing experience!

[@Thorbearius]

Amazing, this looks like so much fun!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It was an absolute blast! Cheers!

[@baretorgeirband6733]

Is that the tweed with automatic cooling? Looks hot to wear tweed otherwise, but of course it might be needed when sitting near professor fireballs...

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Always bring tweed when meeting Professor Fireballs! Alas, Florida is a bit too hot for tweed, so I had to make do with linen.

[@PrinceOfGenovia]

So hard to grasp the idea that this unassuming guy dreamed up and *published* such a deep and imaginative fantasy world. There’s nothing like Malazan, it is so immersive, so challenging, and so rewarding.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Agreed! There really is nothing else like Malazan.

[@tiffinyvann9723]

Nice haircut a.p. Yes you do but we still love you.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

No more ponytail! But, yes, we do still love him.

[@tiffinyvann9723]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy don’t worry Philip his ponytail will return it will just take a little while

[@Ulmo90]

Awesome, fun that you all met up

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you! It was spectacular!

[@bookimecorner8715]

i enjoy your video and love to see you as in talking with writers like steven erikson

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you! It was an amazing experience to meet Steven Erikson and my other friends in person.

[@cacballs]

Holy cow, this is awesome!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It was just fantastic -- cheers!

[@Nxrth2001]

and there was a time people thought Avengers was the greatest collab on planet earth. EPIC

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Ha ha! Move aside, Avengers! Thanks, Chirag!

[@Thecatladybooknook_PennyD]

Ahhhh!!! This intro!! This is so cool!!!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I'm happy you enjoyed it, Penny!

[@kingplunger6033]

I am happy that AP is just on vacation, was already a little worried tbh ^^

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Yes! He is living the good life in Florida just now. He'll return to his channel soon, I expect, fireballs and all!

[@taimohamed4447]

this is awesome

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks, Tai!

[@DoUnicornsRead]

LOVE IT!!!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you! It was more fun than I can possibly say!

[@MrRorosuri]

this meet up is a blast

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you! It was really amazing to be there!