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Royal Assassin summary
Brief summary
Royal Assassin by Robin Hobb is a captivating fantasy novel that follows the story of Fitz, a royal bastard with the ability to communicate with animals, as he navigates the dangerous political intrigues of the royal court and faces the threat of a deadly enemy.
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Royal Assassin
Summary of key ideas
The Return to Court
In Royal Assassin by Robin Hobb, we rejoin FitzChivalry Farseer, the royal assassin, as he returns to Buckkeep after a failed attempt to live a peaceful life. Fitz is still reeling from the events of the previous book, where he was forced to kill his mentor, Chade, and his beloved, Molly, believes him dead. He is also dealing with the consequences of his actions, as the kingdom is under threat from the Red-Ship Raiders, who are responsible for the creation of the Forged, people who have lost their humanity.
Back at Buckkeep, Fitz is reunited with his mentor, Chade, who is revealed to be alive, and the Fool, his enigmatic friend. Fitz is also tasked with training a new apprentice, Hap, in the art of assassination. As he navigates his new responsibilities, Fitz becomes increasingly aware of the political machinations at court, particularly the rivalry between Prince Regal and his half-brother, Verity, the heir to the throne.
The Red-Ship Threat
As the Red-Ship Raiders continue their attacks, Fitz learns that the Forged are being used as soldiers in their army. He also discovers that the Forged are not mindless, but rather people who have been stripped of their free will. This revelation deeply affects Fitz, as he realizes the extent of the suffering caused by the Raiders.
Meanwhile, Prince Verity, who is also a skilled practitioner of the Skill, a form of telepathy, is using his powers to create a dragon army to combat the Raiders. However, the strain of this task is taking a toll on his health, and he becomes increasingly isolated from the court. Prince Regal, on the other hand, is using the chaos caused by the Red-Ship Raiders to further his own ambitions, even going so far as to frame Fitz for the murder of a noblewoman.
Assassination and Betrayal
As the situation at court becomes increasingly volatile, Fitz is drawn into a web of intrigue and betrayal. He is forced to use his assassin skills to protect himself and those he cares about, even as he struggles with his own sense of morality. His relationship with the Fool also deepens, as the enigmatic figure reveals more about his true nature and his connection to the events unfolding at Buckkeep.
However, Fitz's efforts to maintain stability at court are constantly undermined by Prince Regal, who is revealed to be in league with the Red-Ship Raiders. Regal's treachery culminates in a brutal attack on Buckkeep, leaving the kingdom vulnerable to the Raiders. In the chaos that follows, Fitz is forced to make a devastating choice, one that will have far-reaching consequences for the future of the Six Duchies.
The Ultimate Sacrifice
In the final act of Royal Assassin, Fitz is pushed to his limits as he confronts the full extent of Regal's betrayal. With the help of his friends, including the wolf Nighteyes, Fitz launches a daring plan to save the kingdom from the Raiders. However, the cost of this plan is high, and Fitz is forced to make a heartbreaking sacrifice to ensure the survival of the Six Duchies.
As the book draws to a close, Fitz is left physically and emotionally scarred by the events that have transpired. He is also burdened by the knowledge that his actions have set in motion a chain of events that will shape the future of the kingdom. Despite the heavy toll, Fitz remains committed to his role as the royal assassin, knowing that his duty to the crown will always come at a great personal cost.
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What is Royal Assassin about?
Royal Assassin is the second book in Robin Hobb's epic fantasy series, The Farseer Trilogy. It continues the story of FitzChivalry Farseer, a royal assassin with magical abilities, as he navigates the dangerous political intrigues of the Six Duchies. Filled with betrayal, loyalty, and complex characters, this book delves deep into the world of court politics and the personal sacrifices that come with serving a king.
Royal Assassin Review
Royal Assassin (1996) is the second installment in Robin Hobb's Farseer Trilogy, continuing the tale of FitzChivalry and his struggles within the royal court. Here's why this book stands out:
- Featuring complex characters and intricate political intrigue, it immerses readers in a world of deception and power struggles.
- The exploration of moral dilemmas and the consequences of difficult choices adds depth and emotional resonance to the narrative.
- With its unpredictable plot twists and suspenseful storytelling, the book keeps readers engaged and invested until the very end.
Who should read Royal Assassin?
- Readers who enjoy epic fantasy and intricate world-building
- Fans of character-driven narratives with complex and morally ambiguous protagonists
- Those who appreciate richly detailed and immersive storytelling
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Royal Assassin FAQs
What is the main message of Royal Assassin?
The main message of Royal Assassin revolves around loyalty, sacrifice, and the consequences of power.
How long does it take to read Royal Assassin?
Reading time varies, but generally several hours. Blinkist summary can be read in around 15 minutes.
Is Royal Assassin a good book? Is it worth reading?
Royal Assassin is worth reading for its depth of character development and intricate plot, offering a compelling fantasy narrative.
Who is the author of Royal Assassin?
Robin Hobb is the author of Royal Assassin.
What to read after Royal Assassin?
If you're wondering what to read next after Royal Assassin, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- Hearts in Darkness by Laura Kaye
- Every Heart a Doorway by Seanan McGuire
- The Curious Case of Benjamin Button by F. Scott Fitzgerald, Nunzio DeFilippis
- Side Jobs by Jim Butcher