Dive into the deadly realms of fantasy literature’s top assassins. From Arya Stark to FitzChivalry Farseer, explore their intriguing worlds.
I’d hazard a guess and say we’ve all thought about hiring an assassin from time to time, especially when someone nicks the last digestive biscuit.
But alas, they don’t often pop up in the Yellow Pages, and frankly, they don’t come cheap.
If you, like me, have a morbid fascination with these masters of shadow and intrigue, you’ll likely find these ten fantasy literature assassins a delightful bunch of homicidal maniacs.
Fitz is the illegitimate son of a prince who gets handed the delightful job of royal assassin. It’s all fun and games until you have to murder for a living. Even with a name that sounds like a medieval dating service, Fitz is the bloke you’d want on your side. He does have a terrible knack for getting nearly killed, but who doesn’t love a trier?
Arya has a hit list and she’s not afraid to use it. Who knew ‘Stick ‘em with the pointy end’ could be such profound life advice? Atta girl, Arya. Not all heroes wear capes. Some wear the faces of other people.
Vin knows her way around a knife and a secret identity. A street urchin turned assassin, she’s proof that life can turn on a penny, or in her case, a coin. If you thought your teen years were tough, try adding ‘assassin-in-training’ to the mix.
Azoth/Kylar Stern from Brent Weeks’ Night Angel Trilogy
Azoth masters the deadly art of assassination under the mentorship of Durzo Blint. Durzo, by the way, is a lad who’s seen it all, done it all, and has the emotional capacity of a rock. Azoth’s rise from gutters to greatness is a tale to behold, especially for those who love a good ol’ rag-to-riches… or perhaps rag-to-homicidal-maniac story.
Jorg Ancrath from Mark Lawrence’s Broken Empire Trilogy
Jorg, the poster boy for troubled youth, is what happens when you mix a prince, a traumatic childhood and a lawless band of outlaws. He may not be a traditional assassin, but with his moral compass lodged somewhere south of ‘chaotic evil’, he certainly gets the job done.
Celaena Sardothien from Sarah J. Maas’s Throne of Glass Series
A badass with a taste for fashion, Celaena proves that one can indeed kill and look great doing it. Her speciality? Delivering death with a side of fabulous.
Severian from Gene Wolfe’s Book of the New Sun
Not an assassin in the traditional sense, but as an executioner, Severian definitely has an intimate relationship with death. He’s got the melancholic brooding down to a fine art and a memory that’s sharper than his blade (or, so he would lead us to believe).
Jerek Mace from Michael Moorcock’s The Eternal Champion series
More of a warrior than a straight-up assassin, Jerek’s blighted life will have you laughing, crying, and questioning your own existential dread. Nothing like a bit of light-hearted anguish over a cuppa, right?
Locke Lamora from Scott Lynch’s Gentleman Bastard Series
He’s the cheeky chappy who could swipe the skin off a rice pudding and make it look like an accident. Less of an assassin, more of a con man, but let’s not split hairs. If there’s one thing to learn from Locke, it’s ‘why murder when you can manipulate?’
The Lady from Glen Cook’s The Black Company Series
She’s the epitome of ‘Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.’ The Lady is a formidable sorceress with a casual side gig in ruling empires and killing dissidents. It’s multi-tasking at its finest.
So, there you have it. A smorgasbord of fantasy assassins who’ve spiced up our literary lives with their unique takes on professional homicide.
Just remember, the next time you get the urge to toss a blade at your annoying flatmate, maybe just settle for a strongly worded Post-It note.
Murder, as these characters have shown us, is rather a messy business.
If you enjoy reading about thieves and assassins, download my novel Birth of Assassins as part of your free Ravenglass Universe starter library!
Explore the top friendships in fantasy literature! Uncover the bonds that define characters in Middle Earth, Hogwarts, and beyond.
Who doesn’t love friendship? Today we’re going to delve into the top-flight friendships in fantastical literature.
So, grab a cuppa, make yourself cosy (preferably with a dragon-sized pile of biscuits) and let’s explore ten of the best mates in fantasy books.
Frodo Baggins & Samwise Gamgee – The Lord of The Rings
Are you really surprised? It’s the fellowship that defines the word itself.
Here we have Frodo, a hobbit with the weight of the world (or a rather heavy ring) on his shoulders, and Samwise, the gardener turned warrior, who probably didn’t even know what he was signing up for when he eavesdropped on Gandalf that fateful night.
Their friendship is the epitome of loyalty, the kind that lasts through a long, wearisome journey to Mount Doom.
Quite frankly, if your mate isn’t willing to carry you up a volcanic mountain while being hunted by a creepy, ring-obsessed creature, are they really your friend?
Harry Potter & Hermione Granger & Ronald Weasley – Harry Potter Series
It’s the magical trio that faced down You-Know-Who and lived to tell the tale.
Harry, Hermione, and Ron showed us the power of friendship, courage, and the importance of a well-placed “Expelliarmus!”
Sure, there were squabbles, moments of jealousy, and that one time Ron left in a huff (we’re still not over that, Ronald), but in the end, they always stuck together.
They faced trolls, death eaters, and even the occasional murderous teacher, proving that the power of friendship truly can conquer all – even an angst-ridden, snake-loving dark wizard.
Lyra Belacqua & Pantalaimon – His Dark Materials
A girl and her daemon—Lyra and Pan are not just friends, they’re literally part of each other.
If that’s not a deep bond, I don’t know what is.
Pantalaimon, the shape-shifting animal embodiment of Lyra’s soul, is with her through thick and thin.
Their friendship shows us that sometimes, our best mate is our own true self (or our talking ermine, pine marten, moth, bird, whatever Pan fancies at the moment).
Locke Lamora & Jean Tannen – The Gentleman Bastard Series
A pair of thieves who would willingly die for each other, Locke and Jean are the definition of a bromance.
They lie, cheat, and steal, but they do it with such flair, you can’t help but find yourself cheering them on.
Their bond is as sturdy as Jean’s beloved hatchets and as intricate as one of Locke’s grand schemes.
If your idea of friendship involves elaborate heists, constant banter, and the occasional life-saving, this pair is for you.
This is a friendship that transcends the usual boundaries of camaraderie and ventures into the realm of the spiritual.
Fitz, the royal bastard, and The Fool, the court jester with a mysterious past, are as different as night and day, yet their bond is unbreakable.
They journey together through heartbreak, prophecy, and the occasional assassination attempt.
This is a friendship that shows us the power of understanding and acceptance, proving that our differences can often be our greatest strengths.
Vin & Elend Venture – Mistborn Trilogy
Initially, an alliance of convenience between a street thief and a nobleman, Vin and Elend’s relationship soon develops into a deep friendship and later a romantic relationship.
They challenge each other, learn from each other, and ultimately change each other in profound ways.
Their relationship is a testament to the power of trust and mutual respect.
It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most unexpected friendships are the ones that shape us the most.
Kvothe & Auri – The Kingkiller Chronicle
In a world full of magic, mystery, and music, the friendship between Kvothe, the gifted bard, and Auri, the enigmatic girl living beneath the University, stands out.
Their bond is gentle, respectful, and deeply touching.
Kvothe shows kindness and patience towards Auri’s peculiar ways, while Auri provides Kvothe a safe haven from his troubles.
Their friendship serves as a beacon of kindness in a world that often seems dark and unforgiving.
Geralt of Rivia & Dandelion – The Witcher Series
A witcher and a bard—an unlikely, yet captivating pair.
Geralt, the stoic monster-hunter, and Dandelion, the flamboyant troubadour, couldn’t be more different, yet their friendship endures through countless adventures and dangers.
While Geralt saves Dandelion from various physical threats, Dandelion often saves Geralt from his own cynicism, reminding him of the beauty and joy in the world.
Their friendship is a testament to the balance that opposites can bring to each other’s lives.
Sabriel & Mogget – The Old Kingdom Series
Last, but certainly not least, is the curious partnership between Sabriel, the Abhorsen-in-waiting, and Mogget, the mysterious cat-like being.
Their relationship is one of mutual respect and necessity more than affection, but it’s their banter and shared determination that really cement their friendship.
Mogget’s cryptic advice and quick wit often aid Sabriel in her dangerous quest, and while Mogget might not admit it, Sabriel’s steadfast courage and compassion likely save him just as often.
It’s a friendship that shows us sometimes, the best partnerships come from the most unexpected places.
So, whether it’s sharing an adventure, a laugh, or just a really good book, these friendships remind us that even in the midst of dragons, dark lords, or dystopias, having a mate by your side makes it all a bit more bearable.
Remember, a good friend will always pass you the next book in the series. But a best friend will buy you your own copy.
What are your favourite friendships in fantasy? Share yours in the comments.
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.
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.
