Assassin's Apprentice

Six-year-old Fitz is brought to the Buckkeep's court because his family can no longer afford to keep him. His maternal grandfather claims that he is the bastard son of King-in-Waiting, Prince Chivalry, and no one who sees him can deny the likeness. To protect Fitz, Chivalry abdicates his place in the royal succession and leaves the Castle, giving the upbringing of his son to his trusted man at arms/stablemaster. King Shrewd, his grandfather, although not officially recognizing Fitz, desires that he attend school, be taught basic combat, and be trained as an assassin. As the Red-Ship Raiders from the Outislands attack the Six Dutchies coastline, and King Shrewd and Prince Verity attempt to find ways to strengthen their kingdom, Fitz's new skills are called into play.

Assassin's Apprentice drew me in from the beginning. I was delighted by Robin Hobb's style of writing. Every sentence just kept me wanting to read more. The world-building was well thought out, especially the inclusion of two special abilities - the Skill and the Wit - of which Fitz may be capable. Hobb makes us care about Fitz and root for him as we watch him come of age. There is much intrigue and treachery in the book which keeps the plot moving along and the reader interested. It was very difficult for me to put this book down, as I kept wanting to find out what was going to happen next. I'm really looking forward to the next book in the series.