The Farseer Trilogy — Reading Order

Robin Hobb's Farseer trilogy is one of the most emotionally devastating reading experiences in fantasy. Set in the Six Duchies, the series follows FitzChivalry Farseer — the illegitimate son of the king-in-waiting — who is trained as a royal assassin while navigating court politics, magical abilities, and a deep bond with animals through the magical talent called the Wit. Fitz is one of fantasy's most beloved and heartbreaking protagonists.

Start with the Farseer trilogy: Assassin's Apprentice, Royal Assassin, and Assassin's Quest. Robin Hobb then wrote the Liveship Traders trilogy (set in the same world, different characters), the Tawny Man trilogy (returning to Fitz), the Rain Wild Chronicles, and the Fitz and the Fool trilogy (Fitz's final arc). The full sixteen-book Realm of the Elderlings saga is best read in publication order for maximum impact.

Hobb's writing is intimate and character-driven in a way that few fantasy authors attempt. She writes from deep inside Fitz's perspective, which means readers feel every betrayal, every loss, and every small kindness with almost unbearable intensity. The series is not about grand battles (though those exist) — it is about relationships, duty, sacrifice, and the gap between who we want to be and who we are. The Fitz and the Fool relationship, which deepens across all three trilogies, is one of the most complex and moving friendships in all of literature. Be warned: Hobb will make you cry.