Robin Hobb

I think that the Assassin Trilogy are Robin Hobb's best books by far. Fitzchivalry Farseer is a refreshingly complex character, and not your typical fantasy hero. The books have a decidedly dark tone, and this is also change from most fantasy series.

I think that the two following series, The Liveship Traders and The Tawny Man are not as good, but still worth reading. Pick them up from the Library or second hand.

I am currently enjoying the new trilogy, Soldier Son. It has a wild west theme, in a fantasy world. Magic is present, but not widely used, although some use more than others. I prefer the colonisation and exploration themes to the magic, and I eagerly await the final book.

I'm unsure how I felt about this book, it focuses on the magic again, but in a better way than the second book. I think it's because that I expected this, and so wasn't feeling robbed by the lack of the soldier training and martial aspects.

I think the book was a bit long, with several opportunities to end that were not taken, instead it drags out slightly towards the end, making sure to fit in a few happy endings, and some late plot twists.

It's not as good as the Assassin trilogy, but it's worth reading, I'd suggest holding on for the paperback.