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Assassin's Apprentice

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2008

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Book Brief

Robin Hobb

Assassin's Apprentice

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2008
Book Details
Pages

768

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Fantasy

Romance
Setting

The Six Duchies • Medieval Fantasy World

Theme
Love

Family

Friendship
Publication Year

2008

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

16-18 years

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Super Short Summary

Robin Hobb's Assassin's Apprentice introduces a young individual's journey to self-discovery and survival in a medieval fantasy world. Trained in the art of assassination, they navigate dangers, form alliances, and uncover secrets. This coming-of-age story is the first in the Farseer Trilogy.

Mysterious

Contemplative

Emotional

Dark

Adventurous

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Robin Hobb's Assassin's Apprentice is widely praised for its rich world-building and deep character development, especially the protagonist, Fitz. While the intricate plot and emotional depth captivate many readers, some criticize its slow pacing. Overall, the novel's immersive narrative establishes a strong foundation for the Farseer Trilogy.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Assassin's Apprentice?

Readers fascinated by coming-of-age stories set in richly detailed fantasy worlds, akin to J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series or George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire, will be captivated by Robin Hobb's Assassin's Apprentice. Fans of character-driven plots and deep emotional arcs will particularly enjoy this novel.

Character List

FitzChivalry "Fitz" Farseer

The protagonist and narrator, Fitz is a young royal bastard with a unique connection to animals and discovered abilities that shape his journey as he seeks identity and belonging.

Fitz's reluctant mentor and father figure, Burrich is a skilled caretaker of horses and animals, known for his strict demeanor and suppressed magical abilities.

A secretive mentor to Fitz, Chade is an aging royal assassin with a mysterious presence, known for his cunning and covert efforts to guide and protect Fitz.

A dutiful prince and Fitz's closest ally, Verity balances military prowess with kindness, offering Fitz support and recognition within the royal court.

The youngest and ambition-driven royal, Regal is the antagonist characterized by his arrogance and desire for power, viewing Fitz with disdain.

The enigmatic court jester, the Fool is a mysterious and unpredictable figure, often offering cryptic insights and displaying a unique rapport with Fitz.

A Skillmaster at the royal court, Galen has a public position of authority but harbors malicious intentions and is a significant source of conflict for Fitz.

Fitz's childhood friend and love interest, Molly is known for her resilience and independence, navigating her own challenges apart from Fitz's life in the keep.

Book Details
Pages

768

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Fantasy

Romance
Setting

The Six Duchies • Medieval Fantasy World

Theme
Love

Family

Friendship
Publication Year

2008

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

16-18 years

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