Assassin's Apprentice

by Robin Hobb
Assassin's Apprentice cover
Good Books rating 4.12
Fantasy
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Technical
  • ID: 4580
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-22
  • ISBN: 9780553573398
  • Publisher: Spectra
  • Published: 1995-01-01
  • Reviews: 4

Raised by a stableman and trained in the deadly arts of the assassin, Fitz, a bastard nobleman's son, navigates a world filled with danger and intrigue. His unique magical skills set him apart, but they also draw him into a web of political schemes and deadly encounters. As he joins a band of raiders and confronts murderous nobles, Fitz must prove his worth and find his place in a society that shuns him. /n/nThe novel delves into themes of identity, loyalty, and the struggle for power, all set against a richly imagined fantasy backdrop. Fitz's journey is one of self-discovery and survival, as he learns to harness his magical abilities and navigate the treacherous waters of courtly politics.

Reviews
Iris Marsh Blog · 2025-12-24
engaging 3.50

The book is slow-paced and character-driven, making it more suitable for adult readers. The writing style is engaging and well-crafted.

This review highlights that Assassin's Apprentice is an epic fantasy that focuses more on character development than fast-paced action. The reviewer appreciates the slow, deliberate pacing and the depth of the characters, particularly Fitz. They recommend it to adult readers who enjoy well-written, introspective stories. The reviewer also praises Hobb's writing style, noting that it is engaging and beautifully crafted, making the story compelling despite its slower pace.

Quick quotes

    Assassin's Apprentice is an epic fantasy, but slow-paced and character-driven.

    Considering the writing style, I'd recommend it more to adult readers.

    Hobb's writing style is engaging and beautifully crafted.

Fantasy Literature · 2025-10-22
engaging 4.00

This coming-of-age story is rich with medieval details and a compelling protagonist. The slow pacing allows for deep character development and a richly detailed world.

Fantasy Literature highlights the novel's strength in character-driven storytelling and its intricate details of medieval life. They appreciate the slow pace, which allows for a deep exploration of the protagonist's journey and the world-building. The reviewer notes that the novel is more suited for adult readers due to its nuanced themes and pacing. Overall, they find it a rewarding read for those who enjoy character development and detailed world-building.

Quick quotes

    This is a coming-of-age novel about a castle bastard's growth into a young assassin.

    Beyond that, though, there are wonderful details of medieval life.

    The pacing is slow, but it allows for deep character development.

ReviewsFeed · 2024-03-27
great 4.50

The book is a great foundation for a series filled with political intrigue. It's a compelling start that fans of fantasy will enjoy.

This review praises the book for its rich political intrigue, making it a great starting point for a series. The reviewer enjoyed the depth and complexity of the political landscape, which adds layers to the story. It's a compelling read that will appeal to fans of fantasy who enjoy intricate plots and well-developed characters. The book sets a strong foundation for what promises to be an engaging series.

Quick quotes

    If you enjoy fantasy with plenty of political intrigue, then this book is a great foundation for a series rife with it!

    I really enjoyed the ...

    It's a great foundation for a series rife with it!

Luke Harkness · 2022-06-21
exquisite 4.50

The pacing and writing are superb, making the story compelling despite its slower pace. The reviewer finds the novel deeply emotional and well-crafted.

This review praises the pacing and writing within Assassin's Apprentice, noting that despite the slower pace, the story is told in a compelling way. The reviewer finds the novel deeply emotional and well-crafted, highlighting the character development and the intricate plot. They appreciate the emotional depth of the story, making it a memorable and engaging read. The reviewer also notes that the writing is exquisite, touching the heart and leaving a lasting impression.

Quick quotes

    The pacing and writing within this novel are both superb.

    Nothing ever truly races along but it is told in such a compelling way.

    The writing is exquisite and touches the heart.

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