Hey folks, did any of you guys heard of a book called the Gormenghast Trilogy by Mervyn Peake? Any thoughts on that?

My thoughts eh? Hmmm, where to begin? I was introduced to this fine piece of English literature by a friend who is a fan of books of such genre. The Gormenghast Trilogy (in my understandings & research) is an old tale, published somewhere in the 1950s or 60s with a strong Gothic medieval-like setting. It is not stated whether it is set in our world or a fantasy world. The story evolves around events happening in a castle called Gormenghast. Bascially, it's about a lowly cunning kitchen boy (with an agenda) who raise himself to power within the castle ranks with plans to take over. But one individual stand in his way, which is the future heir to throne of Gormenghast.

Many characters featured in this tale are weird, strange and act in their own funny ways (think Discworld). Well, except for the kitchen boy and few others who knows what is actually going on. I was informed the book is very descriptive and slow moving. You will not find action or straight-to-the-point elements in this novel. The book is written in the good old style of English back in those days and it demonstrates the powerful use of the English language. Surely you guys will get he picture.

I'm interested in this book due to the interesting plot, but I'm not very sure if I am able to tackle the writing style of it . That sums up my thoughts on it.

Has anyone read books by Glen Cook? Books such as the Black Company and the Dread Empire? I was thinking on getting the omnibuses of these but would like to hear your opinions first