Royal Assassin is everything I hoped for after Assassin’s Apprentice, and it completely lived up to my memories of this series. This book takes everything from the first installment—Fitz’s struggles, the court intrigue, the emotional weight—and pushes it even further.
Fitz’s journey in this book is painful but incredibly compelling. He’s torn between duty and his own desires, constantly pushed to his limits, and the way Robin Hobb writes his suffering feels so real. The relationships, especially between Fitz, Burrich, Verity, and the Fool, are beautifully written, full of raw emotion and quiet, powerful moments. The bond between Fitz and Nighteyes is also a highlight, bringing both warmth and heartbreak to the story.
The tension at Buckkeep builds steadily, and watching the slow, inevitable downfall as Regal tightens his grip is infuriating in the best way. You just want to scream at some characters to open their eyes and see what’s happening. Hobb’s ability to make you feel so deeply connected to these characters and their struggles is what makes this book so special.
The ending left me emotionally wrecked, even knowing what was coming. Royal Assassin is a masterpiece of character-driven fantasy, full of heartbreak, political intrigue, and unforgettable moments. It’s one of those books that stays with you long after you turn the last page.
