Tuesday, November 06, 2007

Ship of Magic - Robin Hobb

Oh, I do enjoy Robin Hobb. I tried to read this series years ago and just couldn't get into it. I returned it. I picked it up again used. I was missing out.

The story follows the lives of people in Bingtown - an outpost of a distant ruler and founded on the Cursed Shores. There were ancient bargains made that shape the culture and politics of the area, but now newcomers are invading and changing the way of life. They bring slavery and a lack of respect for women with them. The theme of many fantasy novels is around political ideas and being self supporting, but with this series it is about free will. The story revolves around destiny, fate, and the characters ability to determine their own way. At the same time, there are discussions about slavery - what attitudes are needed on the part of the owners and society to let it occur in the first place. It is also about standing up for what you believe even when you know it is futile - should you or shouldn't you, when is the right time?

I find myself thinking about the series frequently throughout the day.

It will go on the shelf with the other 2 series from Hobb.

1 comment:

Kristin said...

I don't think I've read any Robin Hobb. You definitely sell it.