Royal Assassin
The Farseer Trilogy • Book 2
by Robin Hobb
Narrated by Paul Boehmer
Why Listen to This Audiobook?
Robin Hobb spends 29 hours making you love Fitz even more — then systematically takes everything from him.
- Great if you want: deeply character-driven fantasy where loyalty and sacrifice feel earned
- Listening experience: slow, heavy, emotionally brutal — not a light or easy listen
- Narration: Boehmer captures Fitz's quiet anguish and weariness with understated skill
- Skip if: you need plot momentum — Hobb prioritizes feeling over pace
About This Audiobook
FitzChivalry Farseer returns to the treacherous court of Buckkeep, still reeling from wounds that have left him physically and emotionally scarred. The kingdom faces mounting threats as the Red Ship Raiders intensify their brutal coastal attacks, leaving behind victims stripped of memory and soul. Meanwhile, political intrigue festers within the castle walls, with rival claimants circling the aging King Shrewd's throne like vultures. Caught between his duty as the king's secret weapon and his desire for a normal life, Fitz must navigate deadly court politics while mastering his forbidden Wit magic and the mysterious Skill.
Paul Boehmer delivers a masterful performance that brings depth and nuance to Robin Hobb's richly layered narrative. His vocal characterizations distinguish each member of the extensive cast, from the calculating Prince Regal to the enigmatic Fool, while his measured pacing allows listeners to fully absorb the story's emotional complexity. Boehmer's narration particularly excels during intimate character moments, capturing Fitz's internal struggles with a vulnerability that draws listeners deeper into his world. The audio format enhances the immersive quality of Hobb's prose, making the lengthy runtime feel engaging rather than daunting.
