Assassin’s Apprentice by

irismarsh.com · Unknown · 2025-10-19

brilliant 4.50

The reviewer loved Assassin’s Apprentice, praising Robin Hobb's brilliant prose and masterful character development. They highlight the slow-paced, character-driven nature of the book and its rich world-building, making it ideal for adult readers who enjoy deep, emotional stories.

The reviewer absolutely adored Assassin’s Apprentice, emphasizing Robin Hobb's exceptional writing style and the deep emotional journey it takes readers on. They appreciate the slow pace and the focus on character relationships, particularly Fitz's bond with Burrich and the Fool. The world-building is vibrant and immersive, with unique magic systems like the Wit and the Skill adding depth to the story. The reviewer notes that while the book is not fast-paced or action-packed, it offers a rich, character-driven narrative that is perfect for those who enjoy thoughtful, introspective fantasy. They also highlight the poetic descriptions and philosophical musings that make the prose stand out. Overall, they recommend it highly to readers who appreciate slow-burn stories with great characters and rich world-building.

Quick quotes

We left. Walking uphill and into the wind. That suddenly seemed a metaphor for my whole life.

Don’t do what you can’t undo, until you’ve considered what you can’t do once you’ve done it.

When you cut pieces out of the truth to avoid looking like a fool you end up looking like a moron instead.

lukeharkness.com · Unknown · 2025-10-19

intriguing 4.00

Assassin’s Apprentice by Robin Hobb is a compelling debut novel that introduces readers to Fitz, an abandoned orphan who rises to become a respected figure. The story is well-paced and features a rich cast of characters, with Burrich standing out as a favorite. While the magic system is more mental than physical, the writing and character development are superb, making it a highly intriguing start to a fantasy series.

Assassin’s Apprentice by Robin Hobb is a fantastic introduction to the Farseer Trilogy. The story follows Fitz, an abandoned orphan who is taken in by royalty and raised by Burrich, a man who becomes a father figure to him. Fitz's journey is filled with struggles, including bullying and social challenges, but he also discovers his ability to communicate with animals through an ancient power called Wit. The pacing and writing are superb, making the story compelling and engaging. Burrich is a standout character, showing deep care and concern for Fitz despite his initial reluctance. Fitz himself undergoes a remarkable character arc, growing from a timid boy into a confident young man. The villains in the story are well-developed, and their intentions are clear from early on. While the book is missing some high-action moments, it is still a fantastically written and intriguing start to a new fantasy series. The magic system is more mental than physical, focusing on the bond between Fitz and animals. Overall, it's a highly enjoyable read that leaves you eager for the next book in the series.

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The pacing and writing within this novel are both superb. Nothing ever truly races along but it is told in such a compelling way that you find yourself very invested in the characters and the story.

Burrich comes into Fitz’s life early on, not really sure what to do with him and clearly no intention of ever truly fathering him — simply helping him along in life until he is given a proper father.

I wanted to give Assassin’s Apprentice five stars but felt that it was missing just a little bit more action.

Assassin’s Apprentice

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