A gleaming debut in the crowded field of epic fantasies and Arthurian romances. The protagonist, Fitz, is a 6-year-old when we first meet him. Im on the fence about whether to categorize this book as adult or young adult. It is the first book in the Farseer Trilogy. The novel's conceit-that it offers Fitz's memoirs from childhood through adolescence-allows for several sequels. Assassins Apprentice is a fantasy book by Robin Hobb, published in 1995.

When Fitz finally comes to King Shrewd's attention, he is given over to the Royal Assassin's tutelage and trained to carry out the king's devious plans. Fitz has inherited the ``Skill,'' a mind-bending talent, and also has the ability to meld his thoughts with those of nonhuman creatures and to mentally ``repel'' physical advances. Fitz's impolitic existence causes the prince to abdicate his claim to the throne, and he and his wife leave the court, and the boy, behind. At age six, he is given over to the safekeeping of the prince's man, Burrich. The kingdom of the Six Duchies is on the brink of civil war when news breaks that the crown prince has fathered a bastard son and is shamed into abdication. Fitz, who is often called the ``Boy'' or the ``Bastard,'' was begotten by good Prince Chivalry upon some ``peasant'' woman. Assassins Apprentice - Chapter 2, Newboy Summary & Analysis Robin Hobb This Study Guide consists of approximately 41 pages of chapter summaries, quotes, character analysis, themes, and more - everything you need to sharpen your knowledge of Assassins Apprentice. The bastard sons of kings play a noble role in fantasy: not only were King Arthur and Modred by-blows, but it is often suggested that Merlin himself came to power from the ``wrong side of the bed.'' While Hobb's offering has a few too many illegitimate heirs backstabbing around, this is still a delightful take on the powers and politics behind the throne.

Assassin's apprentice book 2