Reviews with content warning for Child abuse - The Lies of Locke Lamora

While I think it does rely a bit on the second book to give this story its full weight, The Lies of Locke Lamora is still such a great introduction to this series. Having failed to enjoy some other books that tried to go for a similar mood, I've come to appreciate all the things this novel gets right.

The world is cool and unique, with a strong atmosphere and tons of little cultural touches that bring it to life. Camorr is an unforgettable place. I'd hate to live there, but I feel like I could read a hundred books about this twisted, layered version of Venice. I love concepts like elderglass, the alchemical drinks, the strict social orders and the nuanced religions.

The characters are fun and lovable. Locke proves himself to be more heroic than I had expected, but even if he were as much as a 'bastard' as he claims to be, I think I'd still have fun reading about him. His charisma is magnetic. The others are great, too, and their interactions are pure gold.

The main plot takes a bit to kick in, but only because we first have to be treated to an absolutely beautiful scam by Locke's gang, in which they pretty much pull out a nobleman's wealth with one hand, while pushing it with the other. That is some Better Call Saul-grade chicanery, and I ate it up. The rest is a revenge-driven power struggle between Camorr's major players, with the surprising angle that Spoiler
Locke is not one of them. He and his gang are just pawns in a bigger game, which is one of my favourite things about the plot.

The regular flashback sequences took a bit for me to get used to, but the book is written that way for a reason. A lot of moments are given extra meaning in the context of Locke's childhood. It also works really well for setting up jokes.

I've never read a better 'thief fantasy' story, and I doubt I ever will. Not with this kind of imagination poured into it, at least.

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forsidious's review

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adventurous dark emotional mysterious sad medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Was really impressed with this book - I had heard it was slow paced so was hesitant to read it, but so glad that didn't stop me. I'd say the first half is moderately paced, but relatively light hearted and thoroughly entertaining. I love every Gentleman Bastard and their personalities really shine as you're getting to know them. The 2nd half of the book is much faster paced and also much darker. Shit starts to go down and there are suddenly real stakes and mistakes matter beyond just not getting some coin.

Overall characters I think are where this book shines - even the side characters are great. One of my favorite characters is Sofia Salvara - she ends up being a badass and I overall love how Lynch writes his female characters. I think this is a book series that easily could have gone wrong in that department, but every female character we meet is a badass in their own right. I hope to see more female main characters in the future rather than them being sidelined.

Spoiler

My only complaints are the Falconer seemed too powerful at some points - I liked how it was resolved, but like...why are these guys not ruling the world? Also, Locke seems to have a bit of plot armor - he was in the cask a little too long to have survived. I think if the drama had been cut down a bit and they'd been able to get him out of it sooner then maybe...but it just feels like he's a bit *too* invincible

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