The Liveship Traders

[Wiggum]

Just finished the first book, started on the second. Another really good start. Hobb's story telling / development is a lot more mature. I love the socio-political / economic dynamic she created. Another good recommendation!
Its strange though, I really like the books, but I don't think there's a character in them that I particularily like.
Thanks again for pointing her writings out to me!

[Ranthium]

I also enjoyed the larger scope of the world that was dealt with in this series as compared to the farseer trilogy. I differ slightly in on the character opinion. I enjoyed Kennit alot. Mainly because none of the other characters understand what a sleeze he truly is. :D These books definately have a different flavor then the assassin books, but I also found them to be quite enjoyable. I'm glad that you are liking them too.

[Arctic]

i agree on the character thing, and i think it's intentionally written that way, with flawed protagonists. just goes to show how good a writer she is, i think, that she can carry a great story without any standout/especially likable characters. Normally if a writer alienates her readers like that, giving them no one to identify closely with, the book is almost certainly doomed to fail. i think Hobbs puts in just enough scraps of personality that readers find they respect, if not understand and empathize with, the characters' plights and actions.

anyhow that's a good point. readers that like to identify with their protagonists may not enjoy this series as much.

[Wiggum]

Just finished the second, things are moving.
You make a good point Artic. Hobbs gives you just enough on most of the characters that you stay interested in them. At the end of the second it does seem as if a few of them are growing and changing for the better, but knowing her writing, its not something I'm going to count on.
Seems a lot to bring together in one book, looking forward to it.