RotE1: The Farseer trilogy (BR)

[Jemppu]

@Mareike: could you please hide the reply quotes as well ^^? They contain spoilers, which should belong behind cuts.

Assassin's Quest, chapter 4 (view spoiler)[Mareike wrote: "...But since it's usually about power, not pleasure, it does seem like something the Forged might do...."
Hmm, yes. Might that be it? Somehow I don't see them much of 'power hungry' creatures either, but you have a point - it could be credited to some displaying of dominance thing. (hide spoiler)]

As for what I got spoiled for: (view spoiler)[Burrich and Molly. And now all the dang references of them seem nothing but painfully obvious and I will never see them for what they were meant to be! And I keep waiting for the reveal, so I'm freed from this relentless teasing *hah* (hide spoiler)]

[Anthony]

@Jemppu re chapter 4: (view spoiler)[it’s funny you said that about inns. I had the same thought. The economy with which Hobb described the journey on the road and the passing of farms and fields and then the inn itself put Jordan’s prose to shame in a major way.

I also can’t get enough of Nighteyes’ simple wisdom. (hide spoiler)]

[Kaa]

Mareike wrote: "Jemppu wrote: "Chapter 4 [spoiler removed]"

It's mentioned once, briefly, in Assassin's Apprentice, (view spoiler)[as part of the explanation for why the other Outislanders had capitulated to the Red Ship Raiders so easily. (hide spoiler)]

[Anthony]

Ah, chapter 5 of Assassin’s Quest. (view spoiler)[What a horrifying event, to be found by Will, especially because Fitz’s use of the Skill is unbidden and uncontrolled. But then Nighteyes rescues him! And then Nighteyes pledges to help him kill them all...I fear I’m not able to articulate well how and why the interactions between Fitz and Nighteyes touch me, but this sequence in particular was so very powerful. (hide spoiler)]

[Trike]

Why is it called Farseer?

[Anthony]

@Trike as of this point, the only reason I know for certain is that it’s the name of the royal family in the trilogy.

Chapter 6 in Assassin’s Quest: (view spoiler)[ So refreshing to meet these folks of the Old Blood, and to get a whiff of what Fitz has been missing in his training and self-knowledge. (hide spoiler)]

[Mareike]

Jemppu wrote: "@Mareike: could you please hide the reply quotes as well ^^? They contain spoilers, which should belong behind cuts. ..."

Dang, that's why I shouldn't write replies when I'm tired. I've gone back and taken them out.

Ah, yes, that would be annoying to be spoiled for. (view spoiler)[I remember puzzling this out and then waiting for Fitz to catch up. He can be so dense sometimes. Though to be fair, he does a lot of things on his mind. (And entirely too many people in his mind with the skill-walking....) (hide spoiler)]

@Anthony I know what you mean (view spoiler)[with regard to Nighteyes and Fitz. Their relationship runs so deep, despite (and because of?) their differences... I can't really explain why it has such an impact either. I just love them. (hide spoiler)]

[Jemppu]

Assassin's Quest (thanks, Anthony, for noticing this should be specified as well - will edit my previous comments accordingly)

@Anthony, chapter 4 (view spoiler)[Anthony wrote: "...The economy with which Hobb described the journey on the road and the passing of farms and fields and then the inn..."

Yes! This is well put for it. I'm thrilled you made this observation, as I too noted, how Hobb's descriptions of the surroundings at any given point, manage to convey the feel and the look of a place with seemingly minimal use of words - achieve such impressively rich texture with few well chosen phrases.

Same which could be said for rest of their prose as well: the accounts of battle, or of the distress of the characters or any number of aspects, are all so on point with such skillfully structured sentences. No word seems unnecessary or out of place, and none needs to be added, it feels. The Skill connections too, which one could imagine might take a lot of explaining, get conveyed with such marvelous ease, it makes the enjoyment of the narration such an enticing pleasure. (hide spoiler)]

@Anthony, chapter 5 (view spoiler)[Anthony wrote: "What a horrifying event, to be found by Will, especially because Fitz’s use of the Skill is unbidden and uncontrolled...this sequence in particular was so very powerful."

Yes, it was! That struck with such force and quite unexpectedly in such a quiet moment. The descriptions of Will's use of the Skill are so harrowing! One gets the feeling he's quite effortless and cunning with it. Ruthless.

Loss of words for the bond between Fitz and Nighteyes feels only befitting - for that it might just well be: primal and quite beyond explanation. (hide spoiler)]


Chapter 7 (view spoiler)[Just magnificent landscapes of the duchies and occasional curses from me for having gotten spoiled, waiting for the reveal to release me from this relentless teasing. Come on already!

How sweet is Verity though! So attentive to Fitz. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 8 (view spoiler)[Evocative sensations and more wondrous landscapes pass by as Fitz continues his 'porcupine hunt'. Thankful for that comment from Nighteyes at the beginning, without which this could all seem somewhat more frustrating a journey to follow. Now one can be fairly certain this is not going to be just a single-minded, straight forward "go and kill" mission - but can remain assured that the narrator is well aware of the possible futility of such "Fool's errand" and is well prepared to approach the issue with greater nuance.

Fitz's paranoia and ponderings about possibly being Skill watched felt like something truly maddening. To have to be that careful with every thought - every thought of a thought. Who hasn't played the "if everybody present could read my mind now" at some point in their lives. For him - and by extension to those he cares for - it's a real possibility and a dread. Exhausting.

Also, the name "Will"- makes the sentences such delightful poetry almost "had I come here of my own free will" or was it Will with his insidiously gentle touch of the Skill. For Will was subtle with the Skill. (Also a goddang nuisance of a name to try and search references for in the text afterwards *hah*).

It also feels Fitz increasing dependency to elfbark should warrant some mention. Another grueling downfall to follow. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 9 (view spoiler)[Such an all around intense and brutal passage. And such lavish presentation of space and surrounding details again as Fitz is sneaking around the mansion. Loved the description of Will's appearance - quite dang alluring bait for an illustration opportunity *agh* (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 11 (view spoiler)[Finally I am released from the bonds of the spoiler! Partly at least, I guess... I am sad I will never experience this reveal the way it was meant. But aww, Burrich's hesitancy in the moment - so sweet: like he wouldn't have assisted a delivery a hundred times before.

Fitz's aspirations and sudden uplift in the prospect of fatherhood are truly moving to witness.

And it is addressed too, that the King's Men's loyalty is indeed a Skill imprinting, a magical binding. Wasn't this something Anthony posed a question about previously? (hide spoiler)]

[Anthony]

@Jemppu yes please to ALL the illustrations!

Re chapter 9 (view spoiler)[an incredibly intense chapter. Of course I knew Fitz wouldn’t be successful at assassinating Regal, nor that he would die here, but the suspense was masterfully handled, and the moments of revenge he did successfully carry out against the guards who’d beaten him were very powerful. I’m hopeful that he might avail himself of the aid that the folks of the Old Blood have offered him, but knowing him, he’s too stubborn to do so. (hide spoiler)]

[Jemppu]

@Anthony re chapter 9 (view spoiler)[Anthony wrote: "...the suspense was masterfully handled, and the moments of revenge he did successfully carry out against the guards who’d beaten him were very powerful."
It was! They were!

Some pack they make, Nighteyes, Fitz and Burrich. All alphas in their own rights - no wonder the drama levels rank up so high between them. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 12 (view spoiler)[*heh* to listen with Fitz as tales about him get passed around.

Oooh, the suspense as Regal's men search the caravan.

...aand then we are caught. Damn. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 13 (view spoiler)[Double damn. The drunkenness of Burrich. Though, of course one knew it was coming still. I'm so thankful for the soberness (pun intended) in which the subject gets dealt with in these series. This aspect of the character touches me on a very personal level, and oh, how this scene is painfully real. Man ridden with quilt and sorrow, seeking solace from the bottle, unable to help himself, while fully aware he's making a further mess by it - further adding to the vicious cycle of guilt.

This portrayal of alcoholism, where it is not used to display a character's wickedness or to add to their evil ways, but to bring out their vulnerability, sorrow and helplessness - this I appreciate.

And Molly - whose wish to dissociate herself from alcoholics is the one point by which I most relate to her throughout the series - having to still continuously bear witness to this.

There would be so much to discuss about this, but I'll spare the thread the rant. The conclusion of that is: she is not to be thought as "poor Molly" - when she is clearly the only sensible one, the lucky/dauntless one among the circle of "poor, broken fools" around her.

So, yes, powerful and touching scene. And absolutely brilliant the way in which it gets portrayed by Paul Boehmer, whom I remember having said on some previous comment, made such a perfect drunk *hah* This is true still - more evident here than ever, with such gentle delivery.

And what a call back to the pin that was too! Oh, the importance of jewelry in these men's lives *hah* (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 14 (view spoiler)[Just swept up along the ride... the whole initial Nik exchange skirting around the river crossing issue was such a splendid back and worth. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 15 (view spoiler)[Aaw, Nighteyes. I was wondering how he could possibly fit into a pack as an outsider male. Turns out he doesn't. No surprise there. And hah for his displeasure to go along as Fitz's dog. Such an alpha indeed. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 17 (view spoiler)["That one knows the meaning of pack, no matter how he denies it" - *tries not to cry - fails* Oh, Burrich, you damn fool, you ought to show some respect still for this 'dog' who regards you so highly. (hide spoiler)]

[Anthony]

Assassin’s Quest chapter 13 (view spoiler)[a beautiful ending to the scene, in which a small amount of healing of his soul is afforded Fitz. I do believe he can trust Starling, which is a huge gift. I just hope she doesn’t suffer for it. And the ferret! Good that the Old Blood folks are aiding him. (hide spoiler)]

@Jemppu I agree re Burrich. Thank you for sharing what you did. Very touching.

[Mareike]

Anthony wrote: "Assassin’s Quest chapter 13 [spoilers removed]

@Jemppu I agree re Burrich. Thank you for sharing what you did. Very touching."

Aah! I had forgotten about (view spoiler)[the ferret until now! Help does come from unexpected quarters sometimes!
I was always intrigued, while reading this series, by how Hobb captured the voices and natures of the different animals Fitz touches with his Wit. Be it the animals he bonds to, or others like the ferret. (hide spoiler)]

@Jemppu I have to second Anthony: thanks for sharing.

[Jemppu]

Assassin’s Quest

re chapter 13 (view spoiler)[Anthony wrote: "...I just hope she doesn’t suffer for it..."
My fear with all whom befriend Fitz at this point.

Anthony wrote: "...And the ferret! Good that the Old Blood folks are aiding him. ..."
Agreed. The scope of fauna the story encompasses just seems to keep widening by each chapter. Which is nice! (hide spoiler)]

re chapter 13 after chapter 14 (view spoiler)[Anthony wrote: "a beautiful ending to the scene, in which a small amount of healing of his soul is afforded Fitz."
Yes, I fully agree. It's so pleasing to have Fitz hear of these others' accounts of the grueling events he's been a part of. Offer him the chance to realize that as much as he is struggling, his actions have a lasting impact. And even if the secondary tellings might not always reflect his own reality of the events, that they get passed on as stories to inspire others must offer encouragement, some incentive.

The varied forms of intoxications and addictions (and their resulting consequences) play such huge role throughout the series, and are handled with such expertise and depth, it's evident Hobb must write with some authority on the subject. The condition in which Starling comes back to their room at the beginning of chapter 14 just adds to the weight of that which she opened up about here. Tiny scene, but which again managed to touch very distinctively.

I must thus repeat my appreciation to Paul Boehmer's performance, even though I know it might mean anything to only rare few who listen/listened the audio version. His delivery has been so on point for all of these characters and the array of emotions on display, with nuances of timing and tempo and accents (Kettricken's nobleness just oozes through her calm timbre and alluring accent) and what have you. And this scene brought it out so brilliantly - perfectly enacting a tired headstrong young woman displaying a moment of weakness in drunken stupor - bringing the characters alive and adding such weight and inescapable mood to a scene with only few words exchanged and which in writing may go by quite unnoticed. Makes me wish a clip could be shared here. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 20 (view spoiler)[*heh* The start of the chapter reads like a tourist guide info of the city of Jhaampe.

The Fool! Another thing about audiobooks: these reveals come quicker than they would if trying to interpret the lines from text - as soon a character opens their mouth in a familiar voice. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 21 (view spoiler)["You can have my life, but not my child's". So proud of this new daddy Fitz. So sorry for Kettricken and this situation these two are finding themselves in. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 22 (view spoiler)[Ouuch! Drunk Fitz is so raw, vehemently scathing. Boehmer's delivery fierce! Not even Shrewd was ever this vicious in his smoke addled senility.

Fitz's desperation with the situation with his child being pulled in to be a pawn in the royal game. To have even Kettricken ask he hand her over. Heartbreaking. Please, can't the guy just have his quiet home life, and the kid a childhood. Please.

While in contrast, Nighteyes bonding with the kids is so heartwarming. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 23 (view spoiler)[Ooh. Fitz gets the 'royal command' for ridding Regal. And that it comes from Kettricken feels quite satisfactory - now they have a shared mission.

This is setting up for a potentially rather epic showdown, but I do wonder, if there's still time to bring out some sympathy for the character of Regal before his supposed downfall. Apart from very few stray words earlier on in the series, his character has been presented very unfavorably - onesidedly dislikable figure. A choice flashback to the princes' earlier life together perhaps or a glimpse of some tiny redeeming side of him wouldn't go amiss to deepen the impact of the narration and drive home the fact, that this is family killing family here. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 24 (view spoiler)[Loving this wintery wonderland the expedition is journeying through, along the 'Skill Road'. The moments with Kettricken and Fitz are lovely, and the respect between them despite the circumstances is reassuring of that things are still okay (though also, that all could be setting up to go disastrously).

The flashes of the road messing with Fitz's Skilling are effectively disorienting.

Loving Burrich schooling Molly on parenthood. Bringing worth Molly's own shortcomings. The way in which these people get by leaning on each other is so heartening.

Molly naming the baby after something she despises. We'll likely discover some other reason for it from her herself yet, but this is still disheartening (though, also somewhat relatable). (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 25 (view spoiler)[The clever subtlety of the way with which Fitz's confusion is portrayed here is so effective - like reverting back to his 'wolf self'. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 26 (view spoiler)[Another lovely moment with Kettricken and Fitz, sharing their love for Verity. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 27 (view spoiler)[Fascinating journey through the 'ghost town' - loved the whole map discovery and witnessing Verity's presence.

Then there be dragons. Quite possibly the most fantastical thing in the series yet, but it's a wonderful testament to Hobb's ability to 'tell alive' these made up creatures as well, that they do not seem one bit out of place - jeppas included. In case of the "Elder ones", well set up, and as legendary for the spectators in the story as they appear for the reader. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 28 (view spoiler)[Now that the question is finally out, it's increasingly frustrating why the Fool must be addressed by a gendered pronoun at all. (hide spoiler)]

I am continuing with full enjoyment of this story and welcoming thoughts it evokes.

[Anthony]

Assassin’s Quest chapter 16 (view spoiler)[another delicately wrought scene filled with subtlety and longing was the nighttime conversation between Fitz and Starling. Hobb has such a strong ability to write such scenes, one of the reasons I love her work so much. I’m finding myself hopeful that the crossing into the mountains might be successful, but I’m also mindful that almost nothing comes easily to our hero, so I’m readying myself for some rough moments ahead... (hide spoiler)]

[Anthony]

@Gabi I look forward to being able to read your responses to the later chapters. I know this book went off the rails for you, but it has yet to do so for me. I’m so curious as to how it lost you.

[Anthony]

Assassin’s Quest chapter 17 (view spoiler)[what was that I was saying about things never going easily for our hero...? I fear for Nighteyes of course but I’m so grateful he’s ok for now. And even though I know that obviously, since Fitz is writing this as a memoir years hence, he survives this latest ordeal, I still am completely captivated as to find out how he does so, and at what cost... (hide spoiler)]

[Anthony]

Assassin’s Quest chapter 19: (view spoiler)[ Ah Nighteyes, his courage and steadfastness and loyalty and love are so powerfully depicted. I fear for him... also, how satisfying was it when Kettle and Starling were Fitz’s saviors? I hope they will be safe... (hide spoiler)]

[Anthony]

Assassin’s Quest chapter 21 (view spoiler)[ Nighteyes and the Fool are friends and this does my heart so much good. I think it’s quite interesting that Starling and the Fool chafe at one another. I also found the reunion with Chade and the ensuing conversation to be especially moving. (hide spoiler)]

[Jemppu]

Assassin’s Quest

re chapter 17 (view spoiler)[Anthony wrote: "...even though I know that obviously, since Fitz is writing this as a memoir years hence, he survives this latest ordeal, I still am completely captivated as to find out how he does so, and at what cost."
Good point! I wonder if this is precisely why, instead of fearing for Fitz's ultimate fate, I fear for those close to him. Though how he ends up is still as gripping as ever.

Wild, unsubstantiated speculating: if that is him. What with all this Skilling involved. (hide spoiler)]

re chapter 19 (view spoiler)[Anthony wrote: "...how satisfying was it when Kettle and Starling were Fitz’s saviors?..."
Surprised how fond I find myself for the character of Kettle (Shouldn't though - to find it surprising to love any character within these books). Part of it must be the intrigue of their true identity still. Though the personality alone is quite endearing. Fitz has a habit of attracting these type of older folks' care and patronage. (hide spoiler)]

re chapter 21 (view spoiler)[Anthony wrote: "...Nighteyes and the Fool are friends and this does my heart so much good. I think it’s quite interesting that Starling and the Fool chafe at one another..."
Oh, yes. Starling's 'feud with the Fool is indeed tickling. And the friendship between Nighteyes and Fool - as an idea this struck an odd connection at first, due to associating one so strongly to the court settings and the other purely a feral being, but of course with the two sharing such love for Fitz it works.

Anthony wrote: "...I also found the reunion with Chade and the ensuing conversation to be especially moving...."
That he continues to play a part in Fitz's story is wonderful. Though, as with all close to Fitz now, it feels one must worry for them, one way or another. (hide spoiler)]


Chapter 29 (view spoiler)[Ouuuch, another nasty Will attack out of nowhere. This one particularly vicious, for targeting Fitz's family.

That Nighteyes calls the Fool a "brother" I would say settles it for sure, if it wasn't for Fitz's strong conviction about this, and the high likelihood that Nighteyes might just be going along with him on this. But like the Fool points out: what does it matter (hence, my continued dislike of the gendered pronouns in use here).

And dear lords the scene with Fitz confronting the fool about this. Such utter delight! A true treat of laughter amidst this grim journey.
Oh, Fitz - thou protest too much - for a man who frequently shares his dreams, thoughts and by extension his bed with another man, who so vehemently praises the importance of the emotional and physical connection he shares with another men and who so desperately declares his love and longing for the men in his life... you can be a bit dense with your divided definition of love whether "man for man" or "man for woman". Again: what does it matter - it surely appears not to, when you are not thinking about it, Fitzy-fitz. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 30 (view spoiler)["We would not live as victims".

That was one powerful chapter. The scene with Starling and Fitz calling back to some of the unfortunate things set up earlier.

Here it jumps out again, how the ease in which Hobb's dialogue so naturally flows through and between conversations of even this substance is remarkable. And feels very authentic. 'Screen authentic' anyway: this dialogue doesn't feel it would need much cleaning for a script. Not a hint of hesitation in it: things get dropped into the mix casually, and the topic moves from harrowing survival stories to friendly bickering to discussions on bedchamber discretions with such a pleasing nonchalance. Still, without demeaning the gravity of the discussed revelations in any way - these characters just feel so alive. And very well spoken. While one of the participants is a wolf too, without verbal skills. Truly masterful prose - a joy to follow.

And oh, these characters! The way in which this 'pack' all regard one and other. With such dignity and understanding and care. Would that this was always true in real life too.

Cutting a 'self-debate' regarding the possible trope-y readings of the character of Starling here - for it felt dire, and inconsequential to appreciating the character all the same - if not more. Maybe later, if it seems any way relevant. Just now I'm enjoying the journey too much.

Feels like there might have been some 'Magic acorns' used in them there gardens. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 31 (view spoiler)[Huh? Are Fitz and Nighteyes completely exchanging their perception of time? Fitz only able to live in the now like an animal, and Nighteyes worrying over the distant future like a human would. Intriguing, if this is so - where it might lead, I wonder.

"The hauling bitch" though - without a hint of contempt *hah* Love it. Can this be her 'wolf name' from now on? (I keep putting off mentioning how all of this 'sending' and bonding with wolves and trying to protect oneself from mind attacks reminds me of ElfQuest)

The Fool going hunting? Hmm, intriguing.

Whaaat is going on in the reviving of the Fool scene?? Kettricken is speaking in the voice of Kettle? Is it really meant to signify something, or was that just a faulty line reading from the narrator? Leaning towards later, since how would a reader distinguish this from the text at all? Odd slip.

"Green manhood? I really should've shown her." *hoh* what I said earlier about the conversations feeling authentic in their back and worth.

Ooh! The revelation about elfbark was most significant and unexpected! But now I'm curious how much of a mistake this really was of Chade. Conflicts increasing, doubts surfacing! (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 32 (view spoiler)[Yup. Skill = Force.

Oh, no. Fitz has lost Verity (and immediately starting to grow grumpy?).

"High Bitch" X,D Oh, Nighteyes, you marvelous mind! I must repeat my full support for these names. (if ever there shall be another Kettricken portrait, surely it must be named thusly).

Aagh! How I was pulling my hair during the exchange between Fitz and the Fool at the pool, hoping it wouldn't play out the way I feared. Fitz you tool!! Giving away Molly's location, even to the Fool! This seems so obvious a Skill trap. The puppet maker a puppet themself. A bit too obvious perhaps? Say it isn't so

Yet. Brilliant if it were too... ach. (hide spoiler)]

Oh, no! I just realized how close to the end this is getting already - the thirties rolled around quite surprisingly! I find myself slowing down deliberately. It'll be sad to leave this world, or these characters... for a while anyway.

[Mareike]

Jemppu wrote: "Assassin’s Quest

re chapter 17 [spoiler removed]..."

Let me say "same" to your reactions, Jemina. Especially chapter 32. But really to all of them. There's so much going on in the latter part of this book it makes your head spin. In the best way.

re chapter 21 and 29: (view spoiler)[That Nighteyes liked the Fool and started calling him "brother" made me so, so happy. Those three....*hearteyes* (hide spoiler)]

re chapter 30 (view spoiler)[I remember having a similar debate about Starling with myself when I read the books. I think I let it go at some point, too. Would love to hear your thoughts, though! (hide spoiler)]

[Jemppu]

Yes, regarding Starling (post chapter 30 ruminations): (view spoiler)[My mind playing devil's advocate to myself a bit here: I can see, how in a less enjoyable story, it would be easy for anyone to be more sceptical and try and force bad tropiness onto Starling's character: a sexually promiscuous liberal female can be so only due to being 'damaged', and her quest centered to blindly following a man to his quest, further fueled by a loss of a male family member.

Personally I usually find such 'troping' of things focusing on character's attributes such as gender/sex/age kinda tedious anyway - just another way to try and set boundaries on how a certain type of character should or shouldn't be or act like, due to their gender/sex/age. Unfortunately (??) this doesn't mean the mind wouldn't pick on them.

Here it all seems too well executed to be considered as faults though: in no way are they hindering to the overall story, or contribute to a lack of 'proper' female representation within this vast and varied a cast. Even if the themes might be tropes, here they fit, and are an example of a good use of them (too often tropes seem to get regarded as negative things only).

Her motivation is her own - to find something to provide support for herself in old age still. And her 'damage' provides solid reasoning how she'd be more free regarding sexual activity, than women in general in precontraceptive times (??), and which has nothing suggesting 'compromised morality'. That she might think less of herself for it, is but her own occasional (??) unfortunate - and understandable - selfdoubt, but not something presented as a fact by the narration.

So these tropes are of no ill consequence here, I'd say. (hide spoiler)]

[Mareike]

Jemppu wrote: "Yes, regarding Starling: [spoiler removed]..."

(view spoiler)[Yes! I agree. A writer without Hobb's skill for creating fully-rounded characters with considerable psychological depth would probably have handled Starling a lot worse.

I think with tropes, as with anything else, it depends on how well they are handled. If an author relies overly on established tropes (and attendant attributes having to do with gender/class/ability/....) it can be cliché and eye-roll worthy. But if they take a trope and put a spin on it - which is what I would argue Hobb does - it can be great.

Her experiences and her 'damage' and how it influences her behavior and her self-image made sense to me on both a world building and a character level. Hobb has clearly thought all of this through and didn't just go "Oh, this character is going to be like this because that's how things are in 'high fantasy.'" (hide spoiler)]

[Jemppu]

@Mareike chapter 30: (view spoiler)[Mareike wrote: "...Her experiences and her 'damage' and how it influences her behavior and her self-image made sense to me on both a world building and a character level...."

Agreed. Whole handling of the subject - clearly from characters' perspective, not for any conventions' sake - made for such a moving scene between her and Fitz. Loved it. (hide spoiler)]

[Anthony]

Assassin’s Quest chapter 24 (view spoiler)[ The skill dream of Burrich and Molly was so moving, and the longing in all of them — including Fitz as he bore witness but could not act — was beautifully palpable.

Clearly the Fool loves Fitz. It seems he is perhaps in love with him as well? Although I’m not sure the Fool would ever express himself in a sexual manner at all. I wonder whether this continues to be explored over the course of the six books in the series that feature them. (hide spoiler)]

[Anthony]

Assassin’s Quest chapter 25 (view spoiler)[ What a wonderful chapter depicting a bit of the return of Fitz to himself, with the help of Kettle first, and then of course the Fool and Nighteyes. I believe that Kettle may be an Elderling, although I’m not sure what that means, of course...

This definitely feels like a calm-before-the-storm sort of chapter, so I’m steeling myself for some bad events. But this chapter moved me a lot. The ways in which this small group take care of one another, the moment when Nighteyes says “this is pack,” the moment when Fitz almost puts his arm around Kettricken, and the final passage of Fitz joining Nighteyes at play, all touched me very deeply. (hide spoiler)]

[Anthony]

Assassin’s Quest chapter 28, and re Jemppu’s point (view spoiler)[ the jury is out on what gender the Fool would use, if any. And also, this was written 20 years ago, at a time when the conversation around gender identity was in its infancy outside of the trans community. So I can forgive some less-than-perfect handling for the moment. Although I am curious to see how this resolves itself.

Meanwhile, so much tension and release and sorrow. One of the gifts of these books is that violence and death always have an impact, they matter, and they are never clean and easy. I think that’s very important in a tale about a killer. (hide spoiler)]

[Jemppu]

Assassin’s Quest

re chapter 24 (view spoiler)[Anthony wrote: "... The skill dream of Burrich and Molly was so moving, and the longing in all of them — including Fitz as he bore witness but could not act — was beautifully palpable..."

Yes. Witnessing Fitz witness these domestic moments - both the tender and the heated ones - only from far away is so heart touching. It would be so nice to see this trio together sharing the parenting tasks.

Anthony wrote: "...Clearly the Fool loves Fitz. It seems he is perhaps in love with him as well? Although I’m not sure the Fool would ever express himself in a sexual manner at all. I wonder whether this continues to be explored over the course of the six books in the series that feature them...."

I do hope so - their relationship to keep getting explored. There's so much love and care between, not only these two, but all of these characters, it'd be wasteful to let it go unnoticed. I hope that tone keeps throughout the continued series as well. I agree with you on the thought of the Fool expressing themself in a sexual manner too - and don't see it necessarily... necessary. That was such a lovely scene of them - Fool, Fitz and the wolf - huddling together for warmth though. (hide spoiler)]

re chapter 25 (view spoiler)[Anthony wrote: "This definitely feels like a calm-before-the-storm sort of chapter, so I’m steeling myself for some bad events. But this chapter moved me a lot. The ways in which this small group take care of one another, the moment when Nighteyes says “this is pack,” the moment when Fitz almost puts his arm around Kettricken, and the final passage of Fitz joining Nighteyes at play, all touched me very deeply."

Just yes, yes, yes, yes. Yes on the calm-before-storm - it seems that's the state of every other chapter too. Yes to the way in which this pack cares for each other. Yes to Fitz and Kettricken sharing these quiet moments together. Fitz needs to put those hands around Kettricken! And yes to all the merry moments these folk can steal to themselves! (hide spoiler)]


Chapter 33 (view spoiler)[Hooray! We finally meet Verity, and as much as it is a relief, it's also disheartening in which condition he is in. And man, Boehmer's voice is so faint an tired for the weary king. So heart-wretching.

Also, Nighteyes is falling in looo-ove with his new hunting mate. How I love to see the bonds between this pack tightening! (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 34 (view spoiler)["Sacrifice". Sheesh, that's harsh. She says in honor of Buckkeep tradition, but such a name sounds like it echoes much of her mountain folksy ways too - wasn't she herself a 'tribute' of some sort *ha* Would the boy have survived they could've commiserated with Nettle over these unfortunate names their mothers bestowed upon them.

Goodness! Such agony in Kettricken's sorrow for not having what Fitz and Verity share - unable to touch her king, to feel and have proof of his love like the two Skill bonded have between them. This pleases me immensely though in terms of the narrative: to have all the subtle ways, in which the book has kept reminding of the significance of the connection between Verity and Fitz actually pay out. And all through this I thought I was being unnecessarily lewd keeping account of them. Not a word wasted. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 35 (view spoiler)[This chapter. Oh, this chapter! Where to even begin? This chapter was such a zigzag of highest of elevations and deep emotional plunges.

Poor Fool, feeling such guilt for having been used as an aid to Regal's evil ways (while no words were shared what a tool Fitz himself was for not realizing this - just leaving them unconscious in the woods). And then right after the utter joy of the Fool Skilling for the first time, and connecting with Nighteyes! Finding him a noble warrior. This was such a joyous moment!

Kestrel's secret finally comes out, and is quite something (easily setting record for the oldest of the 'old folks' to show interest to Fitz *hah*). No, not far from an Elderling then either, it feels. The scene on the beach with her sister and their papa was just so perfect - truly moving. And then the unfortunate recollection which tells us that this is hardly the first generation of Skill users to use their bonds in bed too. If only they had been more open to sharing perhaps.

And the triangle that seems to be forming at the end of the chapter feels like it's about to echo the very events dealt with in these past chapters. Though I doubt nothing quite as drastic will take place, the closer these people get to each other more volatile things seem to get too. (hide spoiler)]

Aagh. So close to the end now. How will all this have time to wrap up. There is no cliffhanger, is there? Please, no.

Still none kind of tiniest sympathetic flashback to (view spoiler)[Regal though. Shame if he has to go down as 'pure evil'. (hide spoiler)]

[Jemppu]

Assassin’s Quest re re Anthony on chapter 28 (view spoiler)[Anthony wrote: "... this was written 20 years ago, at a time when the conversation around gender identity was in its infancy outside of the trans community..."

Certainly. I do not fault the text for not assigning the fool a gender identity or for using terms that are conventional for the language (or for the times) - just sort of generally lamenting, that there is no gender neutral option in English for such occasions to be used fluently. A way to address someone without the need to refer to their gender/sex. Should've made that more clear.

The gender itself is indeed 'undecided' still - and I wouldn't mind if it decided to remain that way either - an androgynous or sexless/genderless character would be / is another great addition to the diverse cast!

Anthony wrote: "...Meanwhile, so much tension and release and sorrow. One of the gifts of these books is that violence and death always have an impact, they matter, and they are never clean and easy. I think that’s very important in a tale about a killer. ..."

Indeed. This had another one of the most intense passages again - so much so, that I must have passed out before commenting on it, but the whole ordeal in the mountains was just gripping! And to follow how all of them banded together to get through was uplifting (just as it was to see earlier all of them huddle together, once they noticed the Fool ill).

And you are correct: Fitz's continued questioning of his choice of vocation does certainly add a lot to the impact of the story, to the relatability of his character and to the significance of each of his 'kills'. (hide spoiler)]

In my minds eye, the Fool is played by Tilda Swinton.

[Anthony]

Assassin’s Quest chapter 30 (view spoiler)[And we had a delightfully rich conversation about gender identity and love between folks regardless of gender and plumbing and I’m very happy about its existence in this book.

What a moving scene between Starling and Fitz. I don’t have much to add that Jemppu and Mareike haven’t already eloquently stated.

I’m still wondering how and why this book lost Gabi along the way. I will ask her once I’m done. It has done the opposite for me. I’m savoring it and while I want to get to the end so I can know what happens, I also want to spend this incredibly rich time with those wonderfully complex characters. (hide spoiler)]

[Jemppu]

Assassin’s Quest re chapter 30 (view spoiler)[Anthony wrote: "...And we had a delightfully rich conversation about gender identity and love between folks regardless of gender and plumbing and I’m very happy about its existence in this book...."
Yes! I am so delighted the book is addressing these things! And hearing Fitz shriek about 'plumbing' was such a riot and came so out of the bushes I was genuinely laughing out loud to the exchange.

And am completely with you on that this has been so far the most engaging of the books yet. Despite being the longest, I haven't found myself skipping pages or wishing for things to progress more hastily. Quite the opposite - few times I've gone through passages twice - indeed trying to savior what little time there is left with these characters.

Bit over 3 hours left now, says the audiobook, but I think I'll wind back the previous chapter once again. (hide spoiler)]

[Anthony]

Assassin’s Quest chapter 32 (view spoiler)[ Heavy sigh that the coterie undoubtedly knows where Molly and Nettle are. I dread I dread I dread what is to come... (hide spoiler)]

But I need to get to sleep and so must end my reading for the night. I’ll finish this wonderful book tomorrow.

[Jemppu]

Assassin’s Quest re chapter 32 (view spoiler)[Anthony wrote: "...Heavy sigh that the coterie undoubtedly knows where Molly and Nettle are. I dread I dread I dread what is to come...."
That was such a frustrating and distressing scene by the pool! (hide spoiler)]

Anthony wrote: "...But I need to get to sleep and so must end my reading for the night. I’ll finish this wonderful book tomorrow..."
same, same. 6 AM here, and I keep nodding off.

[Bobby]

Anthony and Jemina, I just wanted to pop in and say I'm loving the comments on Assassin's Quest. It's really bringing me back to the emotions I felt when I first read these. I can't wait to hear your reactions to the ending.

[Mareike]

Anthony wrote: "Assassin’s Quest chapter 30 [spoiler removed]..."

I don't think (view spoiler)[I'd ever read conversations about gender on this level in a "high fantasy" novel when I came to Hobb's work. The way the Fool troubles gender boundaries and makes the reader think about conceptions of love (on a variety of levels) is still one of my favorite parts of these books. Unsurprisingly, people have spilled quite some ink on this (including a whole Master's thesis submitted at the University of Tampere which makes me both jealous (I wish I had written that!) and happy (because it's one of my universities.)
It's telling, but not necessarily surprising, that science fiction seems to be the genre in which people more readily explore questions of gender, sexuality, and love when compared to fantasy. (Though maybe my assessment here is just biased by what I've read so far.) (hide spoiler)]

@Jemina and Anthony: You'll both have more to read today (well, tomorrow for Anthony), then. Yay! I remember deliberately slowing down when I reached the end of this book and look forward to hearing what you make of the ending. (Can I say once again how much fun it is to tag along while people read these?)

[Jemppu]

Mareike wrote: "...(including a whole Master's thesis submitted at the University of Tampere which makes me both jealous (I wish I had written that!) and happy (because it's one of my universities.) ..."

Your knowledge of Finnish makes much more sense now. I thought it odd for a random language to know.

I also see these have actually been translated too. Oh, the names. I have no trouble understanding the point of view of those who have problems with their 'ridiculousness' in English. "FitzUljas" is such an odd amalgam, when "Fitz" doesn't bear any meaning (though, thank goodness they didn't translate it, that could've been forced to be unfortunately literate). "Nighteyes" here is "eye of the night". "Regal", rather than being "Royal/Noble" translates to "Valta", meaning "Power/dominion". Hmm...

[Mareike]

Jemppu wrote: "...I also see these have actually been translated too. Oh, the names. I have no trouble understanding the point of view of those who have problems with their 'ridiculousness' in English. "FitzUljas" is such an odd amalgam, when "Fitz" doesn't bear any meaning (though, thank goodness they didn't translate it, that could've been forced to be unfortunately literate). "Nighteyes" here is "eye of the night". "Regal", rather than being "Royal/Noble" translates to "Valta", meaning "Power/dominion". Hmm... ...."

"Knowledge" is maybe a bit much. I haven't touched my Finnish textbooks in years. Though I'd probably still be able to introduce myself and order food/drinks.

Translations of names are fascinating! Esoecially with the kind of telling names you have in these books. A name meaning "Power/Dominion" kinda works for Regal, I gotta say.

Practices in Germany seem to be shifting towards not translating names, which I think is mostly for the better.
The weirdest thing I've ever seen were the French translations of the Harry Potter books where they seemed to have randomly translated/adapted some names, while leaving others untouched. I still wonder about their reasoning behind that.

[Jemppu]

Assassin's Quest - let the final 'live read' notes commence.

Chapter 36 (view spoiler)[So pleasing to have Fitz and Verity sharing space again, reacting to one and other, if not quite conversing on a level Fitz would wish. Treating him like a kid again.

"There is nothing like being treated like a child to provoke one to act that way" - see, with this, Fitz would already have such valuable insight to parenting. Unfortunately, I fear it is not to be.

How resourceful a battle between Molly and Regal's men. and clever/thoughtful of Verity to come call Fitz off of his Skilling before he could see where Burrich and Molly run off. Touching to think him standing by.

Kettricken's defeated demeanor throughout is so telling of her concealed sorrow. Again I suspect this is much more prevailing in the audiobook, where you can hear her faint defeat all through.

I am fascinated by the continued practice of the other Skill sensitive characters interrupting Fitz's narration - very effective device to show how his thoughts are under constant surveillance and him in threat to being discovered.

And again on the audio, but there are occasional instances where Bhoemer deliberately lets a smile sound through his voice - this is often the case between Fitz and Nighteyes: nowhere in the text it is indicated that the line "save something for me" as Fitz is leaving to awake the dragons, is to be uttered with such warmth as it gets dealt here - this adds so much to the comradery and to the trust in the bond these two share.

Delightfully imaginative ways Fitz has with his attempts to bring life to stone :D Threatening it, luring it with a promise of women. And his failings to draw the soldiers' attention with the fire. All these add such intrigue and suspense to the narration, and make it that much more clearer how the "struggle is real".

"Tag" - name for a boy who'd become the king's messenger - could it be suspected there is name magic in use again.

But what a joy it is to see Verity acting all kingly/princely/knightly again on that battle! (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 37 (view spoiler)[Aww, we open with Nighteyes enthusiasticly greeting Fitz from the battle and Verity's laughter. Such a welcome relief.

Curious as to if we'll ever 'hear' of Starling's minstrel song. Liked the one about Jhaampe town.

Aagh. Fitz's jealousy and hurt for Verity choosing to Skill-share with Kettle over him. Leaving him with "Skill-hunger nearing to lust". And his attempts to hide this - act all cool about it, and fail. Cute *hah* Aaand the moment he realizes he's very much sharing this with Kettricken - who's acting so gracious about it, as one with her dignity only would. Good stuff this, good stuff. I'm still waiting for the culmination of this threesome, and dare trust now, that the book won't disappoint.

Why, even with all the disses and brushings off, one can not hate Verity one bit? Is it out of pity? Or because he's a prince, and should be viewed as having gotten used to have his princely way? Or because one suspects he might have some greater reason for it - grander purpose for any courtesies to matter?

Aah! Then right after, upon Fool's explanation to Fitz. "You. He refuses to allow you to be put into the dragon". All is forgiven!

And Kettricken gets compared to Fitz's mom. Yup, this dynamic is growing ever more twisted, but none of it feels wrong. No, it's all the more brilliant.

"If you bore any feelings at all for me anymore..."
Then there it is too, why it is okay for Verity to act so cold. The dang dragon.

"Chivalry closed his mind to the Skill years ago, to keep him used against Chivalry. As the Fool was used against you."
Agh! It all makes sense now. And how sorry I am for having called Burrich a fool for "choosing" to ignore his Skill all this time. He did not choose to closet himself, but did it for his prince, who "taught him to be a man", indeed. Goddangit this book is paying back for all past beguiled musings! (and Hobb annulling any and all fanfic made in between the books, I suspect *hah*)

"My self-pity was losing it's savor, but I could think of no better solution than to wish I had some brandy to drown it in".
All. Issues. Are. Called. Back. To. So good.

Verity comparing sacrificing himself to the dragon to being forged. Powerful. Should one be worried still? And what is Kettle not allowed to say?


Let me just state how utterly appreciative I am of the fact, that we are dealing with this level of personal struggles near the conclusion of the story, rather than engaged in some grand scale warfare, in some battle between hoards of faceless pawns.

"The world would end. We went to fetch blankets" (hide spoiler)]

[Dawn F]

I’m finally onto Royal Assassin, guys! Since I’ll be on holiday with a friend in London/Birmingham next week I will probably make slow progress, but I’m enjoying Hobb’s writing a lot and felt like using this as my travel companion.

[Jemppu]

Dawn wrote: "I’m finally onto Royal Assassin, guys! Since I’ll be on holiday with a friend in London/Birmingham next week I will probably make slow progress ..."

Welcome to the read! Eagerly awaiting your added input :)

Say hi to Anthony and Wilson for me! ^^/ (not at all gutted *haha*)

[Anthony]

Royal Assassin was my travel companion in Iceland this summer. Great choice! Looking forward to hearing your thoughts as always.

[Jemppu]

Mareike wrote: "...The weirdest thing I've ever seen were the French translations of the Harry Potter books where they seemed to have randomly translated/adapted some names, while leaving others untouched. I still wonder about their reasoning behind that..."
Without knowing which names wee translated, I'd fathom a guess that it'd be for the name meanings and the riddles to make sense in french.

Finnish too is in transition of not translating names in many cases. Even real life royal names used to get translated, but no more. Movie and TV series' names are often left as they are (though some, often hilarious exceptions to this are - often deliberate, I bet).


Anthony wrote: "...Royal Assassin was my travel companion in Iceland this summer..."
Oh, yeah... and not a single report of "This is Ken and we are in Buckkeep" ^^? No, but seriously, those must've been some marvelous settings to enjoy this world.

[Mareike]

Dawn wrote: "I’m finally onto Royal Assassin, guys! Since I’ll be on holiday with a friend in London/Birmingham next week I will probably make slow progress, but I’m enjoying Hobb’s writing a lot and felt like ..."

Wait, you'll be in Birmingham? We should meet up!

@Jemppu: it made sense with the riddles (or should I say Riddles?), but they also translated "Hogwarts" for example, which just felt off.

Re chapter 36 (view spoiler)[Molly is amazing! Trust a girl grown up in Buckkeep Town to have ehr wits abouzmt her. (hide spoiler)]

Re chapter 37 (view spoiler)[That chapter was SO intense. And I love how Hobb interweaves the personal and the political. Her characters are always so true to life precisely because she reminds us of their issues.
And that sentence you quoted is such a perfect piece of writing, I can't even. It makes me wonder whether she reads a lot of poetry (hide spoiler)]

[Jemppu]

Mareike wrote: "...Wait, you'll be in Birmingham? We should meet up!..."
I'm so sad to miss you all!

Mareike wrote: "...And that sentence you quoted is such a perfect piece of writing, I can't even. It makes me wonder whether she reads a lot of poetry ..."

There's something very Moomin-esque too about that quote.

"Hogwarts" = "Tylypahka" in Finnish (="rude gnarl").

[Anthony]

I’m in the middle of chapter 34 in Assassin’s Quest and had to comment on this. (view spoiler)[Kettle’s making me laugh in this chapter. Her grumpy scolding just tickles me. And the description of her attacking her food as if it had wronged her. I can so vividly picture this powerful, fearsome, passionate, intelligent, fierce old woman that Hobb has created. And based on my following of Hobb on Twitter, I have a feeling there’s a bit of herself that she’s poured into this magnificent character. (hide spoiler)]

@Dawn and Mareike, I look forward to meeting you! Sorry you won’t be there, Jemppu.

[Dawn F]

Anthony wrote: "Royal Assassin was my travel companion in Iceland this summer. Great choice! Looking forward to hearing your thoughts as always."

That Robin Hobb gets about!

Mareike wrote: "Wait, you'll be in Birmingham? We should meet up!"

Oooo yes, that would be fun! I'll PM you.

Anthony wrote: "@Dawn and Mareike, I look forward to meeting you! Sorry you won’t be there, Jemppu."

Looking very much forward to it! Jemina will be with us in spirit :)

[Anthony]

Assassin’s Quest chapter 35 (view spoiler)[ Much has been written before in novels and screenplays and plays about forgiveness, especially forgiveness of oneself, but rarely has it felt as earned and moving as it did in the passage about Kettle/Kestrel finding the love for herself that had for so long been dormant. And yes, as you wrote, Jemppu (Jemina, but I’ve gotten so used to Jemppu), the moment of the Fool discovering the nobility of Nighteyes was breathtaking. (hide spoiler)]

[Jemppu]

Assassin's Quest Chapter 38 (view spoiler)["When Kettricken had fallen asleep, exhausted, I carried her down to the tent she had shared with Verity. I laid her down on her blankets, and kissed her lined forehead as if I were kissing my sleeping child".
Why, Fitz! You do make the most of this situation with your choice comparisons. Your mom, your kid...

Cause it's coming! And there it is! Verity all but asked for it. I knew the book would not dissapoint.

Goodness, this scene though. Cute in fact, and sympathetically cringey, also quite unfortunate, that they would find themselves in this situation. Yet, they understand each other so perfectly. Of course they would. "Ashamed"? Please, Verity! After all you two have already shared? Though, yes, borrowing your nephew's helping "hand" to bed your wife ranks as new level of awkward.

Oh, but first we visit Burrich and Molly. Sure. And what I was spoiled for shall finally be consummated. There. Such a lovely, lovely scene too. Molly's descriptions of the different kinds of loves she's experienced - so poignant. And again Fitz is but to watch from the sidelines. So bitter sweet. The audio has his voice near breaking in trying to withhold a cry afterwards, which the text doesn't give. Heartbreaking.

And now. Oh, these two, and their Skill sharing. Elsewhere, with any less defined characters, I fear there'd be people decrying the creep factor being too high - but here? It's all so well set up - so well played, and so correct for the story and the characters, that I doubt anyone has any need to argue how an older uncle taking his young niece's body to bed his wife seems wrong. No, here it's but a sweet thing. To quote the wise one: "this is pack".

It's interesting to witness Fitz in an old man's body - many times in the story one forgets how young he's supposed to be and has been so tied to minds older than him anyway, so this doesn't even feel that foreign. More curious is to hear him actually conversing in Verity's voice. This whole passage by the "Girl on the Dragon" with the Fool is so soul stirring.

"Take my hurt..."
Don't give away your father, Fitz! Oddly enough, I can agree on giving away any of the other things mentioned, but with your memory banished, and your uncles all but dead by now, you'd be killing off your father's legacy. But wow, again, what a powerful passage.

"Is there nothing private anymore?"
This feels like a question Fitz could've asked a long ago. Like two books ago.

Now! What does bring worth this body switch properly is the delight of Verity in Fitz's voice! *hah* This does make me hope these books would get made into TV-series some day (also enforces wishes of any prequels of the three princes in their youth).

This whole "Freaky Friday" thing though, begs the question, who's baby would that be exactly? Technically. Even if the Skill has some properties to have the 'host body' start producing genetic material matching the 'mind hitchhiker's' genome, surely nothing would be ready to use in this short a time. Verity would be shooting Fitz's reserves here still. I know, aren't I a romantic.

Speaking of which. Some love for Fitz too. Or was it? There can surely be diverging interpretations here - even Nighteyes doesn't give off any hints -, but recalling how Fitz had already been previously keen, "if it wasn't for Molly", I like to believe (for now anyway) this to have been a welcome moment of comfort for these two 'free lovers'. Now that the Fool's words seem to be taking hold and getting Fitz convinced he'll survive without Molly (or Molly without him).

Loving, loving, loving these character complexities, and how this wholesome chapter could very well be summed up in "make love, not war". I am well pleased. (hide spoiler)]

[Jemppu]

re chapter 34 (view spoiler)[Anthony wrote: "...Kettle’s making me laugh in this chapter. Her grumpy scolding just tickles me. And the description of her attacking her food as if it had wronged her. I can so vividly picture this powerful, fearsome, passionate, intelligent, fierce old woman that Hobb has created. And based on my following of Hobb on Twitter, I have a feeling there’s a bit of herself that she’s poured into this magnificent character...."

Yes! She does these characters very well. And if this is like Hobb herself I have no problem believing it. Chade was like this as well in his guise (and well, out of it too, really). And I'm convinced Molly is / will be this as well (which will likely be hell for Nettle! *hah').

I love this type of characters, but often also find myself in conflict with my irl experiences with these kind of personalities. Like here, where I'm in love with the character's moxie, and like you, laughing at her antics, while the other half of my brain goes "try to tone it down, will you, you self-important grump".

And there might be some reflection of self involved in this conflict as well.

Though, it must be said, that with this particular character and her unnatural longevity, I do believe she can actually be 'allowed' her occasional, rather scathing attitude toward these 'mere mortals'. (hide spoiler)]

re chapter 35 (view spoiler)[Anthony wrote: "Much has been written before in novels and screenplays and plays about forgiveness, especially forgiveness of oneself, but rarely has it felt as earned and moving as it did in the passage about Kettle/Kestrel finding the love for herself that had for so long been dormant..."

Agreed. This was such a moving scene and I can imagine, that the release of such long held self-loathing must help ease some of her more contemptuous inclinations as well. Ease her up a bit, when she doesn't have carry such burden anymore or hide behind barricades.

And again! I'm so thrilled how it's the whole pack who all come together to support her! These characters!

Anthony wrote: "...the moment of the Fool discovering the nobility of Nighteyes was breathtaking."
Yes it was! I knew you'd love it, and was so excited for it! (hide spoiler)]


Dawn wrote: "Looking very much forward to it! Jemina will be with us in spirit :) ..."
I certainly will be. Haunting you all on twitter, hawk-eyeing for any familiar faces among the posted (and properly tagged!) photos *hoh*

Anthony wrote: "...Jemina, but I’ve gotten so used to Jemppu..."
Aww, such consideration. Much appreciated. I do actually prefer "Jemppu", but understand that the proper pronunciation of the double consonant can be a tricky to comprehend, thus "Jemina" might be more familiar for some to use. Either or - which ever feels fine. (With "Ye" though, as in "yes", not "Je" like "jester" ;) )

[Mareike]

Anthony wrote: "Assassin’s Quest chapter 35 [spoilers removed]"

I agree 100%.

Re chapter 38 (view spoiler)[I have to say, the longer I think about this "Freaky Friday situation", the more complicated my feelings get... (hide spoiler)]

It is a shame you won't be there, Jemppu! Hopefully, we'll get to met at some future con! (As I said before: we should keep an eye on FedCon. Are there any cons in Finland to look out for?) And as Dawn already said: we will carry you with us in spirit.

[Anthony]

Assassin’s Quest chapter 39 (view spoiler)[ Many tears have been shed as these events have unfolded. I can’t quite pinpoint the words to use to express what’s been touched in me. The sacrifices all of these people have made, the pain they’ve caused themselves and others, and the forgiveness...It’s been masterfully woven together and has really reached the innermost corners of my soul. (hide spoiler)]

Thank you Jemppu (I am happy to continue using that delightful name!) for your wonderfully full and alive distilling of your experience. I so enjoy reading your thoughts.

I’m bracing myself for the final two chapters. Grateful for the journey and sad to see this part of it end...