Royal Assassin

The Farseer Trilogy, Book 2

By: Robin Hobb

Narrated by: Paul Boehmer

Length: 29 hrs and 17 mins

Publisher's summary

Young Fitz, the illegitimate son of the noble Prince Chivalry, is ignored by all royalty except the devious King Shrewd, who has had him tutored him in the dark arts of the assassin. He has barely survived his first, soul-shattering mission, and when he returns to the court, he is thrown headfirst into the tumult of royal life.

With the king near death, and Fitz's only ally off on a seemingly hopeless quest, the throne itself is threatened.

Meanwhile, the treacherous Red Ship Raiders have renewed their attacks on the Six Duchies, slaughtering the inhabitants of entire seaside towns. In this time of great peril, it soon becomes clear that the fate of the kingdom may rest in Fitz's hands - and his role in its salvation may require the ultimate sacrifice.

©1999 Robin Hobb (P)2010 Tantor

Critic reviews

“Hobb manages to create a kingdom that looks like a fairy tale but feels like the real world---which makes it almost impossible not to become immersed in Hobb's fantasy epic.” ( Publishers Weekly)

Solid Story and Narration

It’s solid. The series so far is far above average. Not my personal favorite, but it’s still really good.

You will love this story!

I love this story,even though it takes you up to the heavens but also shows you the ugliness of some petty people. I was so caught up in the story I didn't want it to end. Enjoy!!!

Slow burn, loved it

It never quite went as I was expecting but I love it. The world building wasn’t overly done but left you well immersed and never confused.

Never have I loved and respected an assassin so much.

Much better than the first

The first book left many things to be desired for me and this book fulfilled most of those desires as a marked improvement. Still had many flaws but a much much better book. A good read!

Masterful 5/5!

A masterful continuation of the Farseer Trilogy, plunging readers deeper into the intricate web of courtly politics, treachery, and magic. Fitz, our resilient protagonist, has survived his first perilous mission as the king’s assassin, but at a great cost. Battered and embittered, he grapples with physical and emotional wounds, vowing to forsake his oath to King Shrewd. However, love and urgent events draw him back to the court at Buckkeep, where he becomes entangled in the deadly intrigues of the royal family.
Hobb’s storytelling prowess shines through in her character-driven approach. The novel unfolds at a deliberate pace, allowing readers to savor the nuances between characters and immerse themselves in the richly detailed world. Political machinations, hidden agendas, and personal sacrifices weave together seamlessly, culminating in an unforgettable climax. If you relish fantasy novels that prioritize character development and intricate plots, “Royal Assassin” is an absolute gem that will leave you eagerly reaching for the next installment

Excellent Magic system!

The first book was not nearly as good! I became so enthralled in this book I found myself anxious throughout my own life for a time XD

great caricatures

The characters in this book have a wonderful background and establish good personalities and the magic used is unique and a lot of fun. I was tempted to become a wolf

Awesome

Even better than Book One. Hobb is a storytelling master. I can't wait to read #3

Fantastic story, fantastic narration

Simply Fantastic. I have read all the books, but am really enjoying the books on tape. The actor who does all the voices is fantastic, He is able to bring these rich characters to life with his voice.

Thrillingd

I love this book, I couldn't stop listing to it.
one of the things I love is how in-depth the the the hunting dreams are and how it could feel to be an actual wolf.