"Deadhouse Gates" is the second book in the Malazan Book of the Fallen series by Steven Erikson. It continues the epic tale of the Malazan Empire, focusing on the themes of war, suffering, and the struggle for freedom. The story unfolds in the continent of Seven Cities, where a rebellion against the oppressive rule of the Malazan Empire is brewing. The narrative follows several key characters, including Coltaine, a fierce and loyal soldier, and Ganoes Paran, who faces moral dilemmas amid the chaos. As the plot progresses, the characters confront their destinies, revealing the complexities of loyalty, sacrifice, and the impact of history on the present.