A review by lfp_reading
Royal Assassin by Robin Hobb

adventurous challenging emotional tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

It would seem that Robin Hobb doesn't know the definition of 'second book syndrome'. Royal Assassin was spectacular from start to finish; I couldn't have asked for a stronger follow-up from everything set up in Assassin's Apprentice.

I always thought I preferred action, action, action in my stories, but Hobb proves that, when done well, a slower, character-driven story can be just as impactful and worth the extra time and emotional investment. Her prose is so flowing and beautiful that even when the plot wasn't moving forward, I never felt bored or eager to move on to the next scene. 

As a result, whenever we did get a more action-filled chapter, it was so worth it; having spent so much time delving into the characters and their relationships with each other, I felt the emotional impact and consequences of each event that much more.  

Robin Hobb is quickly becoming my new favourite fantasy author, and I can't wait to continue in this world. 
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