A Lazy Reader's Review of "Royal Assassin" by Robin Hobb

Synopsis

    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.

Review

    We have finally returned to the world of the Six Duchies. What a novel. I honestly cannot give enough praise to Robin Hobb. She is one of the best character work authors I have ever encountered. Her characters feel so real with all of their flaws, desires, fears, and joys.

    I have to say, I am very glad that this book didn't falter to the 'second book' syndrome that happens often with trilogies. I never felt bored while reading this book, even during the slower scenes there was always so much detail to drown yourself in. As with Assassin's Apprentice, this book tends to be slower paced for the majority of its runtime and then really picks up near the end and this book was no different. However, there are instances near the middle where the story does pick up. And, oh my god the action in this book is top tier. It felt like I was apart of the fights that took place and a participant or as a witness.

    I love the introduction of Kettricken as a full character. Even though we met her in the first book and got a very good idea of the type of person she is, I feel like this book really allowed her to shine. Just like her character, her values are so headstrong and blunt. Her ideals come from a very practical stand point but you also see her begin to play the game that is courtly intrigue and I loved it so much. 

    I'm overall so impressed with this series and I can't wait to puck up the final book in the trilogy but also to continue reading The Realm of the Elderlings series.

Aug. 7, 2024 – Aug. 23, 2024

★★★★★

Favorite Quote: "The man who must brag for himself knows that no one else will."