Fantasy. Boy grows up in tough city - second class citizen-taught to fight-feathered snake tattoo

[Ben]

This book is written from a first person standpoint, and starts when the main character is very young. The character is of a people that are considered second class, and known for stealing. He learns to fight young, and develops a unique fighting style because of an injury. When he gets older he leaves the city and joins a caravan, with some rope makers. I remember that there was some significance to a feathered snake tattoo. I believe that there was at least a sequel to this novel, if not more. I first read this book in the early 1990's.

[Marisa]

This was published in 2000, not the 90s, but it fits your description almost to a T down to the tattoo: The Burning City

[Lobstergirl, au gratin]

It is mandatory to include genre and plot details in your topic header, as per the Group Rules.

We will close threads that don't adhere to this requirement.

[Kris]

Ben, thanks for updating the header.

I notice you moved your request to a Solved folder. Is your book The Burning City by Larry Niven - Marisa's suggestion?