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 Genius of Pratchett: A Deep Dive into Discworld’s Lasting Impact

Explore Terry Pratchett’s lasting influence on fantasy literature, tracing Discworld’s imprint from satirical institutions to genre-defining characters.

If you’ve ever found yourself chuckling at a grumpy, anthropomorphic Death or a suitcase on hundreds of little legs, then you have fallen under the spell of the late, great Terry Pratchett.

His legendary Discworld series, a mirthful, satirical romp through an absurd universe teetering on the back of four elephants (all of whom are perched on a giant turtle, naturally), has left a lasting imprint on the landscape of modern fantasy literature.

But how, you might ask, has Pratchett’s peculiar brand of comedic genius influenced contemporary works?

Well, let’s take a wander through the literary Unseen University and find out…

Breaking the Mould: Subverting Tropes

Pratchett’s Discworld, in essence, is a satirical deconstruction of fantasy, a genre often accused of taking itself a smidgen too seriously.

With a healthy dose of parody, Pratchett took typical fantasy tropes and turned them on their heads, doing a metaphorical handstand.

Take, for example, “The Colour of Magic,” where the protagonist, Rincewind, is a thoroughly incompetent wizard.

He’s not the archetypal wise and powerful sorcerer but a cowardly academic with a single spell in his head, and he doesn’t even know what it does.

The Unseen University Effect

Pratchett’s Unseen University, the centre of magical education in Discworld, parodies the stuffiness and bureaucracy found in many academic institutions.

It’s an amusing hotbed of ineptitude, where wizards devote more time to sumptuous feasts than actual magic.

This style of satire has been taken up by authors like Lev Grossman in ‘The Magicians.’

Brakebills College for Magical Pedagogy, although more ‘American fraternity’ than ‘British academia,’ embodies the same tongue-in-cheek critique of educational institutions.

Witty Social Commentary

Pratchett was no stranger to using his novels as a platform for social commentary.

He tackled everything from politics and religion to gender and racial discrimination, all neatly packaged within sharp wit and humour.

“Monstrous Regiment” is a perfect example.

It’s a delightful romp about a young woman dressing up as a man to join the military, only to discover that most of her regiment are also women in disguise.

It brilliantly challenges gender norms and expectations, all with a knowing wink.

Modern fantasy authors have taken this baton and run with it.

N.K. Jemisin’s “The Fifth Season” not only uses a unique narrative structure to tell its story but also delves into complex themes of oppression, discrimination, and social hierarchy.

And she does it with such style, Terry would be proud.

Ankh-Morpork: City of Possibilities

Ankh-Morpork, Discworld’s bustling city-state, is a melting pot of species, cultures, and ideas.

Pratchett uses the city to explore themes like multiculturalism, commerce, and urban life.

Its influence is evident in Scott Lynch’s “The Lies of Locke Lamora,” where the city of Camorr is as much a character as the protagonists themselves.

The Nanny Ogg Impact

Pratchett’s characters are wonderfully flawed, human (even when they’re not), and often, unapologetically female.

Take Gytha Ogg, known as Nanny, a witch known as much for her risqué songs and love of a good tipple as she is for her witchcraft.

Nanny Ogg’s influence echoes in characters like Kaz Brekker in Leigh Bardugo’s ‘Six of Crows.’

Both are shrewd, street-smart, and have a wicked sense of humour.

They’re not afraid to enjoy life, even in the face of danger—a refreshing departure from the stoic heroes that often populate fantasy narratives.

The Power of Narrative: Storytelling in Discworld

Pratchett often played with the idea of narrative causality—the concept that stories, once in motion, have their own momentum and tend to follow certain patterns.

This meta-narrative approach has influenced works like Patrick Rothfuss’s “The Kingkiller Chronicle,” where the power of stories and storytelling is a recurring theme.

The Luggage Legacy

Pratchett’s Discworld is known for its wacky, sentient objects—the most famous probably being The Luggage, a travel trunk made of sapient pearwood, running around on countless little legs.

This tradition of giving life and personality to inanimate objects has been carried forward by authors like V.E. Schwab.

In her ‘Shades of Magic’ series, the magical coats, which change their form according to the wearer’s needs, bear a striking resemblance to Pratchett’s sentient artefacts.

The Night Watch and Modern Morality

The characters of the Night Watch, particularly Sam Vimes, embody Pratchett’s commentary on law, justice, and moral complications.

Vimes’ character development, from a drunken night watchman to the Duke of Ankh-Morpork, resonates with characters like Sand dan Glokta in Joe Abercrombie’s “The First Law” series, where a tortured inquisitor grapples with his own morality.

Embracing the Absurd

Perhaps one of the most distinctive aspects of Pratchett’s writing is his embracing of the absurd and ridiculous.

This is a man who created a character called Death who SPEAKS LIKE THIS and has a fondness for cats.

This embracing of the absurd has found a home in modern fantasy as well.

Neil Gaiman’s “Neverwhere” is a prime example, with its bizarre characters and surreal Under-London setting.

It’s like Alice in Wonderland fell down a rabbit hole and ended up on the Underground.

The Granny Weatherwax School of Hard Knocks

Lastly, we can’t forget Granny Weatherwax, with her sharp wit, sharper tongue, and penchant for ‘headology’ instead of traditional spellcasting.

Her influence can be seen in characters like Minerva McGonagall in J.K. Rowling’s ‘Harry Potter’ series.

Both are no-nonsense, wise, and possess a firm but fair approach to their charges.

The Patrician’s Political Prowess

Pratchett’s portrayal of the Machiavellian Patrician, Lord Vetinari, is a keen-edged satire of political systems.

Vetinari’s rule, while autocratic, is surprisingly effective and popular.

Pratchett uses Vetinari to question what makes a ‘good’ leader.

This style of political satire resonates with George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire,” where the struggle for power and the concept of ‘rightful’ rulership are central themes.

The Pratchett Paradigm

Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series has undeniably left an indelible mark on the realm of fantasy literature.

His unique blend of humour, satire, and insightful commentary, intertwined with memorable characters and absurd situations, has shaped the genre in ways that continue to resonate with readers and writers alike.

His legacy is a testament to the power of fantasy as not just escapism, but a lens through which we can examine our own world, one magical, absurd, and profoundly human story at a time.

Discworld continues to cast its spell over the fantasy genre, from its satirical institutions to its unconventional characters.

And we’re all the better for it.

After all, as Pratchett himself said, “Fantasy is an exercise bicycle for the mind. It might not take you anywhere, but it tones up the muscles that can.”

So, here’s to the continued toning of our mind muscles, courtesy of Discworld’s legacy.

Unlocking the Magic: A Beginner’s Guide to Sword and Sorcery Fantasy

Embark on a thrilling adventure with this beginner’s guide to Sword and Sorcery fantasy literature. Uncover this subgenre’s unique tropes, characters, and dive into our top ten recommended books.

Grab your enchanted swords and dust off your spellbooks, as today we’re delving into the rip-roaring world of Sword and Sorcery fantasy.

So, buckle up, or rather, belt up—we wouldn’t want your scabbards to slip, would we?

What is Sword and Sorcery?

Picture this: a rugged hero with biceps like boulders, wielding a sword so big that it’s probably compensating for something.

He’s joined by a sidekick who can summon a fireball quicker than you can say “abracadabra.”

Together, they’re thrust into a world of high adventure and low cunning, facing off against dastardly villains, ferocious monsters, and the occasional damsel in distress (or quite often, causing the distress).

Welcome to Sword and Sorcery. It’s a subgenre of fantasy that delightfully mashes up elements of action, adventure, magic, and a pinch of romance if we’re lucky.

It’s about the thrill of the quest, the clash of steel, and the incantation of mystic forces, all served with a healthy side of danger and daring-do.

How Does Sword and Sorcery Differ from Other Fantasy Subgenres?

You might be thinking, “Hold on, isn’t that just fantasy?”

Well, not quite.

Sword and Sorcery is like fantasy’s wild and unruly cousin, the one who turns up to the family reunion with a dragon’s tooth earring and a cloak made of griffin feathers.

While epic fantasy (think J.R.R. Tolkien’s “Lord of the Rings”) often focuses on world-shattering stakes, where the destiny of nations or even the whole world hangs in the balance, Sword and Sorcery is more intimate.

It’s about personal quests and small-scale conflicts.

Don’t get me wrong, there’s still plenty of action and adventure, but our heroes are more concerned with their own survival than saving the world.

And unlike high fantasy, which often takes itself rather seriously, Sword and Sorcery isn’t afraid to have a bit of fun.

It revels in its pulp fiction roots, so expect plenty of thrilling escapades, improbable plot twists, and a dash of witty banter.

What Tropes and Characters Can I Expect?

Ah, tropes, those delightful genre conventions that make us feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Sword and Sorcery has them in spades.

First off, our heroes. They tend to be roguish, adventurous types, more likely to solve problems with a sword than a soliloquy.

Think Robert E. Howard’s Conan the Barbarian, a chap who’s never met a problem he couldn’t cleave in two.

And then there’s the sorcerer, a wily character who’s handy to have around when you need a fireball or a convenient plot device.

Sword and Sorcery worlds are generally untamed and dangerous, filled with ancient ruins, cursed treasures, and a startling number of things with too many teeth.

Good job our heroes are usually quite adept at dealing with these. Or, if not adept, at least enthusiastic.

And let’s not forget the villains. They’re often dark sorcerers, tyrannical rulers, or monstrous beasts—sometimes all three in one if it’s been a slow day.

They’re as dastardly as they come, and our heroes will need all their brawn and brains to overcome them.

Sword and Sorcery is a subgenre that offers a thrilling ride, filled with daring heroes, nefarious villains, and plenty of sword-swinging action.

If you’re after some high-stakes adventure without the burden of saving the world, then this might just be the genre for you.

Ten Essential Sword and Sorcery Books for Novice Adventurers

Here are ten enchanting tales that will whisk you away to realms filled with brave knights, cunning sorcerers, and enough fantastical creatures to fill a dragon’s hoard.

“Conan the Barbarian” by Robert E. Howard

The book that started it all. Howard’s Conan is the quintessential warrior, battling foes with his brawn and outwitting them with his cunning. A word of caution, however: these tales are as rough and ready as their eponymous hero.

“The Broken Sword” by Poul Anderson

A splendid mix of Norse mythology and high fantasy, ‘The Broken Sword’ is a tale of stolen children and feuding gods. With its intricate plot and Anderson’s beautiful prose, this book is a must-read for anyone new to the genre.

“Elric of Melniboné” by Michael Moorcock

Elric, the albino emperor who wields the soul-drinking sword Stormbringer, is a character you won’t soon forget. This book is a wonderful introduction to Moorcock’s multiverse and the concept of the Eternal Champion.

“The Sword of Shannara” by Terry Brooks

Often compared to ‘The Lord of the Rings’, Brooks’s novel offers a fresh take on the hero’s journey. With its rich world-building and compelling characters, ‘The Sword of Shannara’ is a great starting point for new readers.

“The Witcher” series by Andrzej Sapkowski

Before it was a hit Netflix series, ‘The Witcher’ was a collection of captivating short stories and novels. Follow Geralt of Rivia as he navigates a world where morality is often as murky as a Witcher’s potion.

“The King’s Blades” series by Dave Duncan

Imagine a world where warriors are bonded to their monarch through magic, becoming his loyal Blades. Duncan’s series is full of political intrigue, thrilling battles, and a touch of humour.

“The Eyes of the Overworld” by Jack Vance

Follow the (mis)adventures of Cugel the Clever, Vance’s unscrupulous anti-hero. With its wry humour and imaginative world, this book is a delightful change of pace.

“The First Law” series by Joe Abercrombie

Abercrombie’s series is a dark and gritty take on the genre. With its complex characters and moral ambiguities, ‘The First Law’ is a brilliant introduction to grimdark fantasy.

“The Belgariad” by David Eddings

This five-book series is a classic tale of good versus evil. With its memorable characters and immersive world, ‘The Belgariad’ is an excellent starting point for new fantasy readers.

“Imaro” by Charles R. Saunders

Drawing from African history and mythology, ‘Imaro’ is a refreshing take on the Sword and Sorcery genre. Follow Imaro, a warrior on a quest for identity and belonging, across the vast landscapes of Nyumbani.

And there you have it, ten tomes to start your Sword and Sorcery adventure. But remember, the real magic is not just in the destination, but in the journey.

So, gather your courage, grab a book, and delve into the thrilling world of Sword and Sorcery. Happy reading!