The Republic of Thieves
David Gemmell Legend Award nominee 2014, Locus Award nominee 2014.
“A bright new voice in the fantasy genre” (George R. R. Martin), acclaimed author Scott Lynch continues to astound and entertain with
his thrillingly inventive, wickedly funny, suspense-filled adventures
featuring con artist extraordinaire Locke Lamora. And The Republic of Thieves is his most captivating novel yet.
With what should have been the greatest heist of their career gone
spectacularly sour, Locke and his trusted partner, Jean, have barely
escaped with their lives. Or at least Jean has. But Locke is slowly
succumbing to a deadly poison that no alchemist or physiker can cure.
Yet just as the end is near, a mysterious Bondsmage offers Locke an
opportunity that will either save him or finish him off once and for
all.
Magi political elections are imminent, and the factions
are in need of a pawn. If Locke agrees to play the role, sorcery will be used to purge the venom from his body — though the process will be so
excruciating he may well wish for death. Locke is opposed, but two
factors cause his will to crumble: Jean’s imploring — and the Bondsmage’s
mention of a woman from Locke’s past: Sabetha. She is the love of his
life, his equal in skill and wit, and now, his greatest rival.
Locke was smitten with Sabetha from his first glimpse of her as a young fellow orphan and thief-in-training. But after a tumultuous courtship,
Sabetha broke away. Now they will reunite in yet another clash of wills. For faced with his one and only match in both love and trickery, Locke
must choose whether to fight Sabetha — or to woo her. It is a decision on
which both their lives may depend.
Scott Lynch
Scott Lynch's writing is a labyrinth of wit, daring adventure, and deeply flawed yet lovable characters. Known for his Gentleman Bastard Sequence, his novels are not just stories—they're intricate heists that twist through the streets of a brilliantly crafted world. Born in St. Paul, Minnesota, on April 2, 1978, Lynch didn't walk the traditional writer’s path. Instead, his journey was as varied as the genres he now commands. From dishwasher to graphic designer, office manager to freelance publisher, it was in these eclectic roles that Lynch honed the gritty realism and sharp dialogue that would later define his work.
The Gentleman Bastard Sequence
In a world where cunning and treachery reign, The Gentleman Bastard Sequence pulls readers into a web of intrigue, deceit, and adventure, unlike anything they’ve experienced before. Set in a sprawling, vibrant city where thieves rule the streets and elaborate heists are the order of the day, this series follows Locke Lamora and his loyal companion Jean Tannen as they navigate the underworld’s dangerous games. Together, they outwit kings, criminals, and magical forces with a blend of wit, charm, and unrelenting ambition.
The Gentleman Bastard Sequence consists of three books and series is set to expand with the upcoming release of five more books. The current recommended reading order for the series is provided below.
Reviews and Comments
Scott Lynch has thoughtfully created a fascinating, original world. His talent to carry the story is natural. And the story is fast-paced, full of action, chicanery and tension. The characters are a colorful group of believable persons.
But what makes Lynch so exceptional as a writer is his way of weaving dialogue. The story is dialogue-oriented, and at least I enjoy it as it is. Oh, how thrilling it is to follow the conversations, especially between Locke and Jean, and Locke and Sabetha. They are juicy. They are hilarious.