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Royal Assassin

Book 2 in the series:Farseer

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'Royal Assassin' by Robin Hobb, the second book in the 'Farseer' series, continues the tale of FitzChivalry, a royal bastard, spy assassin, and mage. The book is praised for its unique portrayal of werewolves and zombies, along with a chilling ending that leaves readers eager for the next installment. The character development of Fitz is highlighted as he faces more challenges and obstacles, making the story deeper and darker compared to the first book. The worldbuilding by Hobb is commended for creating a rich and believable realm, with intricate political intrigues and well-crafted characters.

Characters:

The characters are nuanced and compelling, each contributing to Fitz's development and the unfolding drama.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by clarity and emotional depth, effectively engaging readers with Fitz's journey.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot intricately weaves Fitz's personal struggles with external threats, presenting a complex narrative filled with political intrigue and emotional turmoil.

Setting:

The setting provides a complex political landscape that impacts the characters' interpersonal dynamics and struggles.

Pacing:

Pacing varies throughout the book, balancing slower reflective moments with intense action towards the conclusion.
To be King-in- Waiting, or the Queen-in- Waiting, is to firmly straddle the fence between responsibility and authority. It is said the position was created to satisfy the ambitions of an heir for powe...

Notes:

Royal Assassin is the second book in the Farseer Trilogy.
It begins where the first book, Assassin's Apprentice, left off.
FitzChivalry, the main character, is recovering from severe injuries.
He is a royal bastard and trained assassin for King Shrewd.
The story explores themes of loyalty and betrayal within the royal family.
Fitz has magical abilities called The Skill and The Wit.
The book features a grim political landscape with ailing King Shrewd and ambitious Prince Regal.
Fitz bonds with a wolf named Nighteyes, enhancing his magical skills.
The Red Ship Raiders pose a continual threat to the Six Duchies, often turning captives into 'Forged Ones'.
The narrative delves deep into Fitz's struggles and emotional turmoil throughout the story.
Character development is a major highlight; readers grow attached to various characters.
The Fool remains a mysterious and complex figure, showcasing his wit and wisdom.
The romance between Fitz and Molly is complicated by his duties and royal obligations.
The ending of the book is noted for its emotional weight, shocking twists, and character losses.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book includes themes of violence, trauma, and emotional distress, requiring medium content warnings.

Has Romance?

The book includes a medium level of romance, primarily exploring the complicated feelings between Fitz and Molly.

From The Publisher:

"Fantasy as it ought to be written . . . Robin Hobb's books are diamonds in a sea of zircons."-George R. R. Martin

Fitz has survived his first hazardous mission as king's assassin, but is left little more than a cripple. Battered and bitter, he vows to abandon his oath to King Shrewd, remaining in the distant mountains. But love and events of terrible urgency draw him back to the court at Buckkeep, and into the deadly intrigues of the royal family.

Renewing their vicious attacks on the coast, the Red-Ship Raiders leave burned-out villages and demented victims in their wake. The kingdom is also under assault from within, as treachery threatens the throne of the ailing king. In this time of great danger, the fate of the kingdom may rest in Fitz's hands-and his role in its salvation may require the ultimate sacrifice.

Praise for Robin Hobb and Royal Assassin

"[Robin] Hobb continues to revitalize a genre that often seems all too generic, making it new in ways that range from the subtle to the shocking."-Locus

"[Royal Assassin] reaches astonishing new heights. . . . The Farseer saga is destined for greatness-a must-read for every devotee of epic fantasy."-Sense of Wonder

Ratings (58)

Incredible (17)
Loved It (27)
Liked It (10)
It Was OK (2)
Hated It (2)

Reader Stats (88):

Read It (70)
Want To Read (15)
Not Interested (3)

4 comment(s)

Incredible
1 month

This is the best trilogy that I have read in years!

I should not like this book - I have never liked the first person point of view - and when author's have quotes on their books at how great they tell stories, well don't all of them say this.

Robin Hobb is truly that. The characters are compelling, the story is riveting, and the plot twists and turns keep be turning pages. It has been a long time since I enjoyed a book so much that I rushed into book two. And, now I am on the fast track to start book three today.

I do not fawn over books easily. I need to have the words compel me to read, and not the lingering that there is a book two, or three, or thirty. Make me want to go on, and I will. The Farseer trilogy is that and then some. I am also going to go to the book store this weekend, and pick up the next trilogy, with this one incomplete, as I know that I will love the ending and starve for the next bit of the Elderlings saga.

Most Fantasy that I read an enjoy gives the villain's point of view a few times, and follows one or two characters. Robin Hobb is successful in creating a story with action, adventure, suspense, and even heart all from one character's point of view, and in first person. All hail the Farseer trilogy.

 
Loved It
1 month

A bit draggy in spots, where the plot didn't catch up and there wasn't enough action. Hobb favors "telling, not seeing" to detail certain events in the kingdom, which can be very wearisome at times. Overall, when the characters actually did things and were motivated, the book picked up. Not as good as Assassin's Apprentice, but still, definitely good enough to want to read the sequel.

 
Loved It
3 months

****4.5****

Review soon.

 
Loved It
8 months

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pk496Q6NonI

 

About the Author:

Robin Hobb is the author of the Farseer Trilogy, the Liveship Traders Trilogy, the Tawny Man Trilogy, the Soldier Son Trilogy, and the Rain Wilds Chronicles. She has also written as Megan Lindholm. She is a native of Washington State.Magali…

 
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