Tag: bromance

Scott Lynch’s Revolutionary Impact on Fantasy Literature: The Influence of ‘The Lies of Locke Lamora’

Exploring Scott Lynch’s monumental impact on modern fantasy literature through his ‘Gentleman Bastard’ series, shaping characters, world-building & narrative style.

Scott Lynch’s tour de force, ‘The Lies of Locke Lamora’ burst onto the fantasy scene in 2006, marking a significant turning point in the genre’s evolution.

The book, and its subsequent sequels in the ‘Gentleman Bastard’ series, introduced readers to a unique and innovative world of fantasy that has since greatly influenced countless authors and contributed to the development of modern fantasy literature.

The Influence of Lynch’s World-Building

Perhaps the most substantial impact of ‘The Lies of Locke Lamora’ lies in Lynch’s innovative world-building.

Lynch breathes life into the city of Camorr, imbued with a Renaissance Venice-like setting, complete with a network of canals, grand structures, and a dark underworld.

This type of detailed and vivid cityscape, one that is both fantastical and grounded in historical reality, has inspired subsequent authors to create rich, detailed, and believable fantasy worlds of their own.

The city of Camorr, much like a character itself, is layered, flawed, and complex.

Its distinct districts, culture, social structure, and even food, craft an immersive and palpable atmosphere.

Lynch’s approach to world-building has changed how modern authors perceive and depict their settings, encouraging them to create worlds that extend far beyond generic kingdoms and forests.

The Significance of Realistic Characters

Lynch has also made his mark on the fantasy genre through his complex, flawed, and deeply human characters.

Locke Lamora, the eponymous protagonist, is no stereotypical hero.

Instead, he’s a crafty thief with his own set of morals, which don’t always align with societal expectations.

The novel’s emphasis on character development, relationships, and moral dilemmas has encouraged authors to break away from traditional, archetypical fantasy characters, forging instead more relatable, complex, and morally grey personas.

Further, the use of camaraderie and brotherhood as a central theme adds depth to the narrative.

The characters in ‘The Lies of Locke Lamora’ are tied together by bonds of friendship and loyalty, rather than destiny or prophecy, which was previously a common trope in fantasy literature.

This has pushed authors (include myself) to explore the themes of loyalty, love, and friendship in more profound and nuanced ways.

The Impact of Lynch’s Narrative Style

Lynch’s narrative style, rich in its use of suspense, humour, and shocking plot twists, represents a departure from the more traditional, linear storytelling techniques previously prevalent in the genre.

This approach adds a level of unpredictability and dynamism to the story, compelling readers to stay engaged and constantly guess what might happen next.

‘The Lies of Locke Lamora’ also excels in its fusion of elements from different genres.

The book blends fantasy with crime, mystery, and thriller elements, creating a diverse and captivating narrative.

This cross-genre style has inspired many contemporary authors to experiment with genre boundaries, resulting in a new breed of hybrid fantasy books.

The Legacy of ‘The Lies of Locke Lamora’

Lynch’s narrative introduced a vibrant blend of genres and a distinctive approach to character and world-building that many subsequent authors have embraced.

Notably, Michael J. Sullivan’s ‘Riyria Revelations,’ Fonda Lee’s ‘Green Bone Saga,’ and Leigh Bardugo’s ‘Six of Crows’ exhibit the profound influence of Lynch’s work.

‘Riyria Revelations’ and the Bromance Blueprint

One of the distinctive qualities of Lynch’s novel is the comradery and complex relationship between Locke Lamora and his partner-in-crime, Jean Tannen.

The bonds of brotherhood that tie these characters together have created a blueprint for ‘bromance’ that is apparent in Michael J. Sullivan’s ‘Riyria Revelations.’

The protagonists of Sullivan’s series, Royce Melborn and Hadrian Blackwater, mirror the friendship and loyalty seen in ‘The Lies of Locke Lamora’.

Sullivan, like Lynch, establishes a balance of humour, camaraderie, and dark pasts in the dynamic between his characters, showing that deep, platonic relationships can serve as a strong backbone for a compelling narrative.

‘Green Bone Saga’ and the Reflection of Realism

Fonda Lee’s ‘Green Bone Saga’ series reflects Lynch’s commitment to grounding a fantasy world in realism.

Much like Camorr, Lee’s city of Janloon is a well-structured, believable world.

Lee’s decision to focus on crime families and their struggles for power within a fantastical setting mirrors the gritty underworld and realistic socio-political structures found in ‘The Lies of Locke Lamora.’

The emphasis on gang wars, politics, and crime within a fantastical setting, strongly resonates with Lynch’s Camorr and the criminal activities of the Gentleman Bastards.

‘Six of Crows’ and the Band of Misfits

Leigh Bardugo’s ‘Six of Crows’ bears the undeniable mark of Scott Lynch’s influence.

Bardugo’s story revolves around a band of misfits who undertake a seemingly impossible heist, much like Locke and his band of thieves.

Kaz Brekker, the leader of the gang in Bardugo’s novel, shares Locke’s cunning and tactical mind, coupled with a moral compass that isn’t always aligned with the law.

Bardugo’s knack for intricate planning, multiple point-of-view storytelling, and the unexpected plot twists strongly echo Lynch’s narrative style, as she takes readers through a thrilling journey full of surprises.

Each of these works, while unique and inventive in their own right, owe a certain level of their approach to the trail blazed by Scott Lynch.

From the strong bonds of friendship, detailed world-building and the intricate blend of crime and fantasy elements, Lynch’s influence is apparent in these modern fantasy sagas.

Lynch’s masterpiece has not only altered the way we perceive fantasy literature but has also served as a stepping stone for other authors to push the boundaries of their own creativity.

As such, ‘The Lies of Locke Lamora’ continues to shape the landscape of fantasy literature through its lasting influence on contemporary works.

Recommended Fantasy Reads for Fans of Scott Lynch’s Gentleman Bastard Series”

If you have been captivated by the charm and intrigue of Scott Lynch’s Gentleman Bastard series, then you’re likely seeking more fantasy books that echo its rich world-building, morally complex characters, and intricate plots.

Below is a selection of excellent fantasy novels that should satiate your craving for more such fascinating stories.

‘The First Law’ Series by Joe Abercrombie

Joe Abercrombie’s grimdark fantasy series ‘The First Law’ offers a realistic portrayal of a fantastical world, much like Lynch’s Camorr. Its morally grey characters and ruthless political machinations will appeal to fans of Lynch’s dark and complex narratives.

‘The Broken Empire’ Trilogy by Mark Lawrence

This trilogy, starting with ‘Prince of Thorns’, introduces readers to Jorg Ancrath, a character whose morally grey persona echoes that of Locke Lamora. The series is filled with complex characters, clever plots, and a dark, gritty world that fans of Lynch’s work will appreciate.

‘The Powder Mage’ Trilogy by Brian McClellan

Brian McClellan’s series is set in a world transitioning from a monarchy to a republic, and like Lynch’s work, it features a richly detailed world, complicated political intrigue, and characters with dubious morality. Its unique blend of gunpowder-era technology and magic adds a distinctive flair to the narrative.

‘Mistborn’ Series by Brandon Sanderson

For readers who enjoy Lynch’s intricate heists and complex magic system, Sanderson’s ‘Mistborn’ series is an excellent choice. The protagonist, Vin, is a young woman adept at allomancy – a magic system involving the manipulation of metals – and her journey is filled with intriguing twists and turns that will appeal to fans of the Gentleman Bastard series.

‘The Night Angel’ Trilogy by Brent Weeks

A dark, gritty fantasy series about a young street rat who becomes an apprentice to the city’s top assassin. Fans of the ‘Gentleman Bastard’ series will appreciate the dark atmosphere and layered characters.

‘The Dagger and the Coin’ Series by Daniel Abraham

This series stands out for its intricate politics and economics, as well as a diverse cast of characters. Its blend of fantasy and political intrigue is reminiscent of the power struggles in Camorr.

‘Low Town’ Series by Daniel Polansky

This series centres on a former intelligence agent turned drug dealer navigating through the criminal underworld. Its noir style and focus on the seedy underbelly of society will appeal to fans of Scott Lynch.

‘The City of Stairs’ by Robert Jackson Bennett

This standalone novel is renowned for its innovative world-building, something Scott Lynch’s fans would be familiar with. The novel’s main character, a spy tasked with solving a murder in a city where gods once lived, will resonate with fans of complex, morally ambiguous characters.

‘The Gutter Prayer’ by Gareth Ryder-Hanrahan

This book is the first in ‘The Black Iron Legacy’ series, and it takes readers into a world of gods, monsters, and thieves. Its mix of horror and fantasy elements, along with its rich world-building and focus on the criminal underworld, should appeal to fans of Scott Lynch.

If you enjoy reading about thieves and assassins, you might also enjoy my Dawn of Assassins series.

You can get the prequel novel Birth of Assassins as part of the Ravenglass Universe starter library.  

Claim your free starter library.

The Unbreakable Bonds: A Look at Bromances in Fantasy Literature

Embark on a journey through fantasy literature’s memorable bromances, from Gentleman Bastards to the unforgettable duo in Stormlight Archive.

As avid readers of fantasy literature will attest, there’s little in this genre that captures our hearts and imaginations quite like a good bromance.

These intimate friendships, often between two (occasionally more) men, present an opportunity for deep character development, exhilarating adventures, and emotional resonance that many of us can relate to.

But fear not, this isn’t a dissertation on the sociological aspects of male bonding in fiction.

Think of it as a merry skip through the flowering fields of fantasy bromances, occasionally stopping to point and exclaim, “Look at those guys, aren’t they just great together!”

Locke and Jean

First up, let’s pop in to visit the Gentleman Bastards.

If ever there was a tale that warmed the cockles of your heart with its hearty bromance, it’s Scott Lynch’s series.

Locke Lamora and Jean Tannen have the kind of bond that makes you want to cry into your ale.

They’re thieves, con-artists, and brothers in all but blood.

They banter, they bicker, and they save each other’s backsides with alarming regularity.

That’s the thing about Locke and Jean—it’s not just about fighting the baddies together, it’s about saving each other from their own worst habits.

Hadrian and Royce

In a similar vein, we have the unforgettable duo of Hadrian and Royce from Michael J. Sullivan’s Riyria Revelations.

What starts as a business partnership between a kind-hearted warrior and a cynical thief eventually blossoms into an unshakable friendship that’s full of witty banter and nail-biting escapades.

It’s quite like if you took a shilling for every time they save each other, you’d be as rich as the king in no time.

The Greatcoats

Now let’s take a detour through Sebastien de Castell‘s ‘Greatcoats’ series.

The Greatcoats themselves—Falcio, Kest, and Brasti—have a friendship that can only be described as…well, coat of arms deep.

They squabble like schoolboys one moment and are ready to take a sword for each other the next.

Not to mention their synchronised cloak-swirling—that’s some real friend goals there.

Clay and Gabriel

But hold your horses…or should I say wyverns?

Nicholas Eames’ ‘Kings of the Wyld’ series boasts Clay Cooper and Gabriel.

These two old warriors come out of retirement for one last hurrah, enduring all manner of beasts and bedlam.

Their banter will have you chuckling like a goblin on giggleweed, but at the same time, their loyalty will make you sob like a heartbroken dragon.

An emotional rollercoaster, isn’t it?

Jon and Samwell

Next stop is at the frosty wall of Westeros.

If you listen closely, you might just hear the sound of Jon Snow and Samwell Tarley’s friendship, a heartwarming chord that rings true even amidst the incessant chill.

In George R.R. Martin’s ‘A Song of Ice and Fire,’ Jon and Sam start as green boys at the Night’s Watch but soon develop an enduring friendship that weathers both White Walkers and the politics of the realm.

Jon, the brooding bastard, and Sam, the self-deprecating scholar, are as different as ice and fire, but they stick together like two wights in a snowstorm.

Kaladin and Adolin

Our next bromance takes us to the ‘Stormlight Archive’ by Brandon Sanderson, where we meet the mighty Kaladin and the charismatic Adolin Kholin.

Although their friendship starts on rocky grounds (and who can blame them—class tensions, haunted pasts, and all that), they grow to rely on each other.

Adolin might be the charming prince, and Kaladin a brooding ex-slave, but their friendship shines brighter than a Shardblade in battle.

Plus, nothing says ‘bromance’ quite like fighting an ancient, desolate evil together, does it?

Harry and Ron

Harry Potter and Ron Weasley from J.K. Rowling’s ‘Harry Potter’ series undoubtedly deserve a mention.

Despite the magic and mayhem of Hogwarts, these two chaps stick together through thick and thin (and troll encounters).

0They’re the epitome of childhood friends turned lifelong companions.

It’s a true bromance when your mate is willing to face down You-Know-Who and play life-threatening chess for you.

Kvothe and Simmon

Turning the pages to Patrick Rothfuss’s ‘The Kingkiller Chronicle,’ we find the bond between Kvothe and Simmon.

Kvothe might be the protagonist, the dramatic hero with a tragic past, but it’s Simmon’s steady loyalty that lights up their friendship.

Sim is there through Kvothe’s ups, downs, and frequent tavern brawls.

Sure, Simmon might not be a legendary hero or a magical prodigy, but he’s a bloody good made, and isn’t that what counts?

Kennit and Wintrow

Next, we whisk ourselves to the high seas of Robin Hobb’s ‘Liveship Traders.’

Here, we witness the understated, deeply emotional bond between Captain Kennit and his shipmate Wintrow Vestrit.

Their relationship may start with coercion, but it evolves into an unexpected friendship full of emotional depth.

It’s a rare bromance, crafted masterfully by Hobb, and one that’s hard to forget.

Frodo and Sam

And of course, how can any discussion about bromances in fantasy literature be complete without mentioning Samwise Gamgee and Frodo Baggins from ‘The Lord of the Rings?’

Their enduring, pure, and simple friendship as they journey through Middle Earth is stuff of legends. Sam carrying Frodo up Mount Doom is nothing short of bromance in its most epic form.

“I can’t carry it for you, but I can carry you.”

If you’re not a tad teary after that, well, I’m afraid you might just be a stone troll.

Honourable mention: FitzChivalry and Nighteyes

Our exploration of bromances in fantasy literature would be woefully incomplete without delving into the peculiar, profound relationship that transcends the barriers of species: FitzChivalry Farseer and Nighteyes from Robin Hobb’s ‘Farseer Trilogy.’

You see, the ‘bromance’ that Fitz, the royal bastard, shares with Nighteyes, his wolf companion, is quite unlike any other we’ve discussed so far.

It’s not just friendship, it’s a ‘soulship’ if you will, a bond of minds and spirits.

Through the Wit (a form of magic that allows telepathic and empathic bonds with animals), these two are bound together in ways that redefine the traditional concepts of friendship.

Nighteyes isn’t just Fitz’s pet or even his sidekick—he’s his confidant, his moral compass, and quite frankly, the sensible one in the pair (and yes, we’re talking about a wolf here).

When you have a wolf advising you on your love life, you know you’ve got something unique.

Their banter (if you can call telepathic wolf-human conversations that) is full of playful humour and wisdom.

It’s touching how Nighteyes, the wolf, often ends up being the one teaching Fitz about loyalty, courage, and living in the moment.

One might even say he’s the real hero of the story—Fitz certainly wouldn’t be the same without him.

But it’s not all sunshine and howls—their bond carries a profound sense of melancholy too.

As readers, we’re reminded of the fleeting nature of Nighteyes’ life compared to Fitz’s, a fact that lends an additional depth to their relationship.

It’s this blend of love, wisdom, and impending heartbreak that makes their bond feel so real and resonates with readers even after they close the book.

And in the echoing words of Nighteyes, “We are pack.”

It’s friendships like these that teach us the true magic in fantasy isn’t always about casting spells or slaying monsters—sometimes, it’s about having someone who’ll stand by your side, laugh at your bad jokes, and help you pick yourself up when you’ve had one too many pints of dwarven ale.

And aren’t those just the best types of friendships?

If you love a good bromance in fantasy, you might enjoy my Dawn of Assassins series which centres around the friendship of Fedor and Lev.

Read the prequel novel Birth of Assassins for free as part of your starter library.

Claim your free starter library.