I'd definitely recommend continuing. "Red Seas Under Red Skies" has some great bromance and a great ending that underscores the closeness between Jean and Locke. I will say that the first half of the book drags but the latter half is so much fun. Also "I just have to keep you here... until Jean shows up" --- this moment lives rent free in my mind. One my favorite fantasy book moments
Love Locke & Jean's bromance throughout the books. So glad you read this and checked it off the TBR. "Heisting the way heists ought to be heisted." - George R.R. Heister.
I have an entire video on how George RR Martin literally just puts a blurb on everything so I won't lie that I did chuckle at his blurb on this one lol
So glad you got around to this! The title alone was enough to draw me in, back in the day. Rolls off the tongue. For me, Lies is the best of the series, but I also enjoyed the others and would recommend you continue. I loved the feel of Camorr as a setting and was disappointed the other novels don't take place there.
Red Seas Under Red Skies is my favorite of the 3. Locke and Jean’s relationship narrative goes to 11. Obviously you have to be open to a swashbuckling pirate adventure. Thanks for the great vid!
I'll admit that pirate adventure doesn't immediately sound appealing BUT I think Jean and Locke's friendship could pull me through since I'm such a sucker for friendship pairings
Where are you Merphy from the comments first 10 seconds? 👀😂 It’s a very well written story that will stay with us, it’s standing tall in other languages already and as you said, other genre lovers will love it.
but how great is the flashback about the mage and the bird line first thing after??? One of my all-time favorite transitions in any piece of media. EVER.
Hearing people talk about their first time reading Locke Lamora always makes me want to reread. One of my favorites to pick up for the first time last year. The second book I think was even better. A lot more looking into the Locke and Jean friendship. A lot more heist vibes. And also pirates!
I'm glad to hear that you had a mostly positive experience with Lies of Locke Lamora! While it might be an unpopular opinion, I preferred Red Seas Under Red Skies. In that book, Locke and Jean's friendship deepens following the events of the first book, and I loved the nautical settings. Additionally, one of my favorite female fantasy characters (a pirate mother) is featured in that story. No pressure to continue, but I’m weighing in to say I thought all three were great!
@@Johanna_reads I like the character relationship in book 2 but the story craft is better in 1st. I think Lies of Locke Lamora is way more original both in writing and execution.
@ the plot might've been a bit more focused in book 1, but I tend to be more interested in characters and settings than plot, so the strengths in those areas made book 2 more enjoyable for me personally.
Kyle mentioned you were also reading this for the first time (I finished yesterday!) I agree the beginning was slow - I felt the jumping around a bit disjunct and also felt the same as you that the backstory was much more interesting. But when it got going, I loved it all until the end! 5-stars for me, and I shared your surprise with THAT SCENE, which was where the book got really really good for me.
Re: your question on the sequels. Based on what you mentioned enjoying from Lies I definitely think you should give the other books a shot. I absolutely loved both Red Seas Under Red Skies and Republic of Thieves. If I had to hazard a guess on why they aren't discussed as much its probably that Lies has become so famous and gets recommended as a starting point, plus a combo unfinished series plus you could technically read the first book as a standalone. Hope that helps!
SO happy that you enjoyed this one as much as you did!! I had the exact same experience as you did, and then ended up loving the sequels even more. Needless to say, don't deprive yourself of the exceptional storytelling that is yet to come, especially because you don't mind unfinished things anyway. Cheers!! 🥰
I just read it too, finally! I kinda agree with you, it was definitely a slow starter, and I was much more keen on the flashbacks than the current day story, but it picked up for me too about halfway through. I will say I didn't RUSH to go to book two, instead picking up something else off my list, but I won't blame the quality of the book for that. Its just generally not what I look for in a fantasy novel. Either way, I enjoyed it. Glad you did too.
So I started reading on a regular basis 2 years ago, mostly fantasy and sci fi and in that time I would say that the Lies of Locke Lamora is easily in my top 3 favorite books I’ve read in that time. Red seas is also fantastic! Glad you enjoyed it!
I feel like Lies is certainly more iconic, but Skies was very good too. There were kind of two big plot threads being followed in it, and I liked how one ended a lot more than the other, but overall it was very fun. I also wanna shout out my favorite climax in Lies was the but about the true name. It was one I saw coming basically immediately, but it was still *so* satisfying! I think maybe because of how over the top Lynch got with making things go wrong; having that thing go right was super cathartic.
Your points on the Lies of Lock Lamora are pretty much the same as mine. Book 2 is my favourite. It gives more of the friendship between Lock and Jean. Have read all three books, and enjoyed them all! It hasn't bothered me that the series isn't finished.
OoOo Can't tell you how excited I got when I read this video title! I am an absolute sucker for heists and fantasy so this was honestly one of my favourite books the first time I read it! I will say, however, that I do agree with you about the slight momentum dip in the final act. I've felt similarly in some of Joe Abercrombe's books, it feels kinda like; "I get it! Everything is bad, I am already down and bloody, you can stop kicking me now! (please?!)" When it comes to the 2nd and 3rd books I personally really liked them, but not quite as much as the first one but still like a 4/5 for me where the first one was a 4.5! However, book 3 really sets up a book 4 and then Stephen Lynch kinda pulled a George RR Martin and just never published a book 4 (been waiting almost 12 years now for The Thorn of Embarlain)... And reading series that never get finished is one of my absolute least favourite things, so for that reason alone I am hesitant to recommend reading the next two. But really glad to hear you liked it, the "I just have to keep you here... until Jean shows up." moment is so so Damn good. That shit gets my eyes blurry even now years later!
momentum dip is a perfect way to describe it. I think I'll probably read the others since I'm a sucker for great friendships but I won't necessarily do it back to back if that makes sense
Long time viewer, don't think I've ever commented. Strongly recommend to continue reading. I haven't read the most recent additions but remember really enjoying the sequels
Read this book years ago and really enjoyed but forgot about it. It was a nice surprise to see your review pop up. Definitely brought back those great moments and now I wanna go back and read it again. Also, how great a name is “the gentleman bastards”😂
You had basically the same feelings as I did on this book! I found the beginning present-day story super slow and not very interesting, but I was enjoying the flashback scenes quite a bit. I also didn't realize I had any feelings for the characters until the same moment as you. The ending got long-winded at a point, but the actual ending-ending was a banger, so 4/5 stars for me. I've never read any of the sequels!
literally perfectly summed up my thoughts lol! I'll probably read the sequel at some point and maybe that will help you decide since we felt so similarly about the first
I feel like the next few books don't do this as well. Still doesn't pull punches, but I feel like oike the duo can never get a win in like in the first book with the death tribute.
I really loved this book (5*) but actually had a pretty tough time getting through the sequel (3*) and then never even tried the 3rd. 🤷♂️ I’d be curious of your thoughts on the sequels though to decide if I should reread and continue on since I read them a long time ago and maybe my opinion will change.
I got into this series because of Merphy and Red Seas Under Red Skies is my favorite of the trilogy. I agree that the beginning of Lies is difficult to get through, but RSURS was easier to jump in and continue from what I remember. Definitely recommend you give it a try. I started book 3 and similar to book 1, I am struggling with the beginning's pacing. Trying to ease myself into regularly reading with shorter works before finishing this book since it is so dense.
I enjoyed all three books. You really see Jean and Locke's relationship become the central focus as they rely on each other and go through so much together in the next 2 books. The world opens up as they travel and with more flashbacks it fills out more of their backstory. And then book 3 ends on a big cliffhanger. Hopefully we get more books in the series, the author said he's still been writing but has massive anxiety about having anyone read it. So he has been working on dealing with the depression/ anxiety with therapy and drugs that he feels are working better for him and he is publishing some short stories set in world to help him slowly get back into it
I personally love the sequels. I think they don't get recommended much because the third book ends on a massive cliffhanger and there hasn't been another book in 13 years or so
There is a new short story in the most recent Grimdark magazine though that takes place after book 3. (haven't read it yet) But it seems like Lynch has overcome his writers block and is working on the remainder of the series again.
I like that you describe this as a good fantasy that you can recommend to pretty much anyone to read. That makes a lot of sense - I look over at my bookshelf and see Locke Lamora right next to Name of the Wind, which I feel is in the same category - easy book to recommend to someone who isn't a fantasy person but you know they'll enjoy it (also sorry not sorry this series isn't finished). As for the sequels? I think people don't talk about them as much because well, if you like the first one, you'll read the rest. And if not, why talk about the sequels? I will say personally for me - the whole series kinda stresses me out. Like you mentioned with things keep going wrong. And then coming up in the series...friends falling out or being angry at each other...or just...lots of drama. It's all a bit much. But - you may still like!
Each book they go to new city-states for new adventures. Book 2 does start an arc that is revolved in Book 3 and while there are lingering mysteries, I don't feel left in the lurch like waiting for Winds of Winter or the Doors of Stone--or Stormlight 6 for that matter. Oh, and when the woman Locke pines for, Sabetha, finally shows up, she does not disappoint. She is his match in every way.
I'm currently reading the second book and it is good. I nearly choked laughing so hard while reading Locke and Jeans introduction to a new set of characters. Is it as good as Lies? Hmm, so far I say yes.
I REALLY like red seas under red skies. One of the places they spend a good portion of the story in is one of my favorite in any book. Republic of thieves in my opinion is not as good as the first two but you get a lot of the backstory
I love the Locke books! All three are worth reading. They add romance and higher stakes. Have you read the other two Robin Hobb Fitz trilogies? They are as good as the Farseer books!
I feel like reading the next 2 books in the series just for the character interactions makes it worth it! There are highs and lows in both but the past to present back and forth are just as good mixed with several new interesting characters and plots!
Just been on another YT’s book club in January where we read this book. We rated it 4*’s on average. Was a strong premise and character buildings but the ending didn’t quite land
I really loved the villain. If the story was told from their perspective, they would almost be the hero. Their struggles, achievements, and triumphs are practically the traits you see in protagonists. That's my most memorable take away from this great book.
I liked both of the sequels. Book 3 was more like book 1 for me, and it definitely starts to jet through time towards the end, kind of like "How to lose the time war", but it was pretty satisfying. Book 2, I REALLY like, but the beginning is a bit stressful. Our heroes are in a pretty dark place that really goes on for awhile. Then at around the 50% mark, the whole story changes dramatically, before coming back around to a satisfying conclusion.
I have tried 4 different times to get into this book. And I can't make it past the first 20 pages. I keep hearing how great it is. But it hasn't hooked me. Maybe fifth time will be the charm if I try it again.
Well like I said, I felt the beginning was pretty slow. So maybe knowing that will help push through? But also if you tried that many times it might just not be worth it 😂😂
@@Bookborn I disliked it more and more as it went on. I feel it started bad and just continued to get worse. I appreciate that you are able to find the positives in most any book but it's just bad
I think I don't hype up the others as much because 1) I do think you gotta read LoLL first, and 2) At some level, I think of the whole series as both The Gentlemen Bastards and The Lies of Locke Lamora, since Locke is the main protagonist even in the later books
Just a quick note, I listened to the audiobook and apparently Jean is pronounced the french way! :) so, a bit like Shawn! :) but I know that once you have set on a name it is that forever no matter the canon haha
Red Seas Under Red Skies and Republic of Thieves are both fun reads. Lies of Locke Lamora was probably my favorite of all three, but I'd still recommend the others, especially if you like pirates and plays.
I think you should continue, I don't like book 2 and 3 as much as book 1, and they are both a little cliffhangery, but they are still good, and I don't think you will be that bothered by waiting on the more cliffhangery ending
I love book 2 as much as book 1, maybe even more. I think that's partly because the naval part of it was amazing. There are some incredible secondary characters too. I was not a fan of book 3 though, and unfortunately didn't love the direction the story hints at at the end.
I don't if I read it in 2020 or 2021. I remember reading it and Gardens of the Moon very close together. I'm almost certain read Locke Lamora first. I wasn't blowen away but it's an enjoyable read.
It is a well written book. I went into it for the crew-that-does-heists vibe, which I greatly enjoyed. I'm more of a fan of the general fellowship than the Frodo and Sam story in LotR, so you will likely be unsurprised to find that I didn't care for the latter portion of the book. I read the whole thing, hoping that the events of the turning point would be undone somehow. Since it was not, I have no real interest in the rest of the series. I do enjoy stories with a pair of friends, like the Riyria books by Michael J. Sullivan. Sadly I think in the case of this series, though, the bitterness from the original setup would loom over any future books and spoil it for me.
4 out of 5 is about what I would give it. I mean it's a 5 out of 5 heist story or buddy story. But on a general fantasy book scale this is a nice 80% - 85% one for me. Verry good. Would recomend.
I don't think I felt fatigue on the darkness and depression because every bad thing that happened seemed to move the plot forward - another interesting obstacle for our boys - great popcorn thriller. Then at the same time there's interesting world building going on - the descriptions of that old city glass was enchanting - creepy mages, crime family drama, and witty repartee (one of the compelling factors was if they'd loose that devil-may-care freedom with the weight of the bad stuff). He also did a great trick to keep it from dragging by telling the backstory every other chapter along with the current, so there's an anthology of stories that usually had something to say about the other story! I gave it 4.5 just because I know some stories hit me on a deeper level, but for what it was doing, I think it did perfectly. Haven't read the other 2 yet, but I totally want to.
The second on is also great. I just like it a little more, cause I think the two plots don't fit as good as they do in the first one, however, if you love Locke and Jean moments Red seas under red skies is for you. On the third one Jean takes a step back in the story, I still liked it very much tho.
The second one is Locke and Jean become pirates. So fun and I would say as good as the first. Third book is more flashbacks to the gang as kids and the parallels between a theater performance heist they do back then and a political election they try to influence in the present. It’s fun too but I found it slower than the second one
Book 2 is really great! - my favourite of the 3. I think often when people recommend 'Locke Lamora' they mean the 3 books not just the first. Get a cup of tea and get started now I suggest :) (I also thought the start of book 1 was slow and nearly quit. I don't think there are slow bits like that in the second and third).
PLEASE read the other books. The first one was a three-star for me. It was fine but I wasn't crazy about it. Book two ended up being my book of the year.
I really enjoyed reading the book but for some reason I have zero drive to read the next books in the series. I have them on my shelf, but it has been over a year and it hasn't happened yet. That is not how I normally read series. I don't know why, but somehow the one book was enough for me. Maybe some day.
I think you’d like book 2 and especially the flashback scenes in book 3 better. I love all 3, but some readers just won’t connect with the story until they get the full history of these guys pieced together over the 3 books. If you prefer complicated guy/girl romances over just pure “bromance” stories, you’ll like book 3 just for that reason.
I didn’t like book 2 quite as much as book 1 but i still really enjoyed it overall. There are things i like about book 3 and others that i dislike, particularly the ending. I enjoyed the series as a whole though for the characters and Locke and Jean is my second favorite duo behind only Royce and Hadrian
I think the sequels live up to the first book. I don't think they are overwhelmingly weaker or stronger, so it may be more to taste which is better, but if anything the Jean and Locke is stronger in the sequels, so I don't think you'll be disappointed if you continue.
Ah, so, the sequels are less standalone, and my perspective is that there's... less _consensus_ on the sequels. It's not that people _dislike_ them, but often individual people will really like book 1 and book 2, but think book 3 is just alright, or book 1 and book 3, but think book 2 is just okay. Not *dislike.* Just much messier feelings on them compared to book 1, with everyone able to find things they really like in each one, but each one doesn't click as widely as the first book - there's bits that work for some people and not for others in a bigger way than in book 1.
I think it’s worth continuing the series. All the books are good but do get progressively worse IMO. In particular the 3rd book does something that changes the trajectory of the series that I’m not sure I’m thrilled about… we’ll see
2:30 I have never understood why people compare this to oceans eleven lol, I don't think it's like that in the slightest. That being said this is one of my favorite series of all time haha.
I had a bet with myself when I saw this come up that you would pronounce Jean 'Jeen' and I am both richer and poorer now 😂 I feel like this is a common one, though. (Great review, have similar feelings towards it though maybe a touch more positive)
this made me lol honestly I'm a les mis fan so I really don't know why it didn't click that it's clearly that Jean pronunciation? Literally didn't even cross my mind while I was reading ☠
I loved the first book even if it was a bit slow on the present time story in the beginning.. The second book is even slower though, and it never caught on like the first one. For that reason, I have still not read the third.
The banter and characters are excellent. But it can get distracting if you start paying too much attention to the heist bits. The sequels have a similar heist scenarios. But they can be fun if you want a break from less thinky books.
I loved Red Seas Under Red Skies more but its not as well written, get messy towards the end, a heist and pirate story combined but mixed. The parts that work are excellent though, Locke and Jean are so fun. Republic Of Thieves is worth a go but i wasn't into either plotline more just the main characters. Nothing is broken that cant be fixed tho
Each book basically tells itsown story, so I dont think it not ending is actually as bad as ASoIaF, so I think reading the next 2 if you liked it enough makes sense.
If you found the "everything is going wrong" trope tedious in the 1st book, don't read the others - Locke lies, Jean cleans up his mess, and blah blah blah. "Lies" was fine on its own..
I heard many great things about this series so I bought the 3 books. I finished the first book but it was a STRUGGLE. I wanted to DNF but I persevered. I ended up returning the other 2 books.
I thought books one was ok. 3.5 stars for me. IIRC book two was not as good and book three was on par with book one. I generally don’t recommend them because they weren’t 4 stars for me.
![Lies of Locke Lamora [SPOILER] Discussion With Friends!](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/oJvKNmqMtsE/mqdefault.jpg)
HELLO IVE BEEB SUMMONED
(Dming you now for many thoughts)
I was wondering when you’d pop up 😂😂
@@merphynapierreviews here you are! 😂
Knew the Merph would show up
I read the series because of Merph's love for the books.
The ending of book 3 sucks, though.
I'd definitely recommend continuing. "Red Seas Under Red Skies" has some great bromance and a great ending that underscores the closeness between Jean and Locke. I will say that the first half of the book drags but the latter half is so much fun.
Also "I just have to keep you here... until Jean shows up" --- this moment lives rent free in my mind. One my favorite fantasy book moments
Literally could just read that scene for a little pick me up at any given moment, def a top moment of any book for me as well
Love Locke & Jean's bromance throughout the books. So glad you read this and checked it off the TBR. "Heisting the way heists ought to be heisted." - George R.R. Heister.
I have an entire video on how George RR Martin literally just puts a blurb on everything so I won't lie that I did chuckle at his blurb on this one lol
So glad you got around to this! The title alone was enough to draw me in, back in the day. Rolls off the tongue.
For me, Lies is the best of the series, but I also enjoyed the others and would recommend you continue. I loved the feel of Camorr as a setting and was disappointed the other novels don't take place there.
Red Seas Under Red Skies is my favorite of the 3. Locke and Jean’s relationship narrative goes to 11. Obviously you have to be open to a swashbuckling pirate adventure. Thanks for the great vid!
I am commented to say me as well
I'll admit that pirate adventure doesn't immediately sound appealing BUT I think Jean and Locke's friendship could pull me through since I'm such a sucker for friendship pairings
@@Bookborn ahem, what do you think Merphy would say about this??? Let her convince you :D
With Book 2, I was like, "How are both major plot threads going to be revolved by the end?" But by the Nameless Thirteen, Scott Lynch pulled it off.
@Bookborn it's really good and very funny.
Where are you Merphy from the comments first 10 seconds? 👀😂
It’s a very well written story that will stay with us, it’s standing tall in other languages already and as you said, other genre lovers will love it.
Merph did end up getting the bat signal eventually lmao
but how great is the flashback about the mage and the bird line first thing after??? One of my all-time favorite transitions in any piece of media. EVER.
Nice bird asshole
In many ways this book probably had the best execution of flashback sequences for comedic effect. Like he really does nail the timing on them
Hearing people talk about their first time reading Locke Lamora always makes me want to reread. One of my favorites to pick up for the first time last year. The second book I think was even better. A lot more looking into the Locke and Jean friendship. A lot more heist vibes. And also pirates!
I'm glad to hear that you had a mostly positive experience with Lies of Locke Lamora! While it might be an unpopular opinion, I preferred Red Seas Under Red Skies. In that book, Locke and Jean's friendship deepens following the events of the first book, and I loved the nautical settings. Additionally, one of my favorite female fantasy characters (a pirate mother) is featured in that story. No pressure to continue, but I’m weighing in to say I thought all three were great!
Great female character you say 👀
@@Johanna_reads I like the character relationship in book 2 but the story craft is better in 1st. I think Lies of Locke Lamora is way more original both in writing and execution.
@ the plot might've been a bit more focused in book 1, but I tend to be more interested in characters and settings than plot, so the strengths in those areas made book 2 more enjoyable for me personally.
@@Johanna_reads fair enough.
Yeah, agreed. Although the ending of the third book sucks.
Kyle mentioned you were also reading this for the first time (I finished yesterday!) I agree the beginning was slow - I felt the jumping around a bit disjunct and also felt the same as you that the backstory was much more interesting. But when it got going, I loved it all until the end! 5-stars for me, and I shared your surprise with THAT SCENE, which was where the book got really really good for me.
Re: your question on the sequels. Based on what you mentioned enjoying from Lies I definitely think you should give the other books a shot. I absolutely loved both Red Seas Under Red Skies and Republic of Thieves. If I had to hazard a guess on why they aren't discussed as much its probably that Lies has become so famous and gets recommended as a starting point, plus a combo unfinished series plus you could technically read the first book as a standalone. Hope that helps!
"I just have to keep you here until Jean shows up" gives me chills to this day
SO happy that you enjoyed this one as much as you did!! I had the exact same experience as you did, and then ended up loving the sequels even more. Needless to say, don't deprive yourself of the exceptional storytelling that is yet to come, especially because you don't mind unfinished things anyway. Cheers!! 🥰
Yeah the unfinished thing isn't even a factor! I think I will at least read book 2 since I heard the friendship vibes just get dialed way up!
I just read it too, finally! I kinda agree with you, it was definitely a slow starter, and I was much more keen on the flashbacks than the current day story, but it picked up for me too about halfway through. I will say I didn't RUSH to go to book two, instead picking up something else off my list, but I won't blame the quality of the book for that. Its just generally not what I look for in a fantasy novel. Either way, I enjoyed it. Glad you did too.
This review is the highlight of my night! I have this book on my shelf I hope to get to it sometime this year! Nice video BookBorn!
So I started reading on a regular basis 2 years ago, mostly fantasy and sci fi and in that time I would say that the Lies of Locke Lamora is easily in my top 3 favorite books I’ve read in that time. Red seas is also fantastic! Glad you enjoyed it!
This whole series is very, very good. Some of the sequels get slow, but the world is very compelling and Scott Lynch is a talent of fantasy.
I feel like Lies is certainly more iconic, but Skies was very good too. There were kind of two big plot threads being followed in it, and I liked how one ended a lot more than the other, but overall it was very fun.
I also wanna shout out my favorite climax in Lies was the but about the true name. It was one I saw coming basically immediately, but it was still *so* satisfying! I think maybe because of how over the top Lynch got with making things go wrong; having that thing go right was super cathartic.
Your points on the Lies of Lock Lamora are pretty much the same as mine. Book 2 is my favourite. It gives more of the friendship between Lock and Jean. Have read all three books, and enjoyed them all! It hasn't bothered me that the series isn't finished.
The Jean pronunciation 😂. So glad you enjoyed it!
I swear she mispronounces names on purpose lol
That's how I pronounced it until I heard the audiobook.
I pronounce it in my head that way too how is it meant to be? like the french way?
@ yea it’s not pronounced gene
OoOo Can't tell you how excited I got when I read this video title! I am an absolute sucker for heists and fantasy so this was honestly one of my favourite books the first time I read it!
I will say, however, that I do agree with you about the slight momentum dip in the final act. I've felt similarly in some of Joe Abercrombe's books, it feels kinda like;
"I get it! Everything is bad, I am already down and bloody, you can stop kicking me now! (please?!)"
When it comes to the 2nd and 3rd books I personally really liked them, but not quite as much as the first one but still like a 4/5 for me where the first one was a 4.5! However, book 3 really sets up a book 4 and then Stephen Lynch kinda pulled a George RR Martin and just never published a book 4 (been waiting almost 12 years now for The Thorn of Embarlain)...
And reading series that never get finished is one of my absolute least favourite things, so for that reason alone I am hesitant to recommend reading the next two.
But really glad to hear you liked it, the "I just have to keep you here... until Jean shows up." moment is so so Damn good. That shit gets my eyes blurry even now years later!
momentum dip is a perfect way to describe it. I think I'll probably read the others since I'm a sucker for great friendships but I won't necessarily do it back to back if that makes sense
Long time viewer, don't think I've ever commented. Strongly recommend to continue reading. I haven't read the most recent additions but remember really enjoying the sequels
Red Seas under Red Skies is my favorite of the series. The first book feels more standalone than the rest.
Read this book years ago and really enjoyed but forgot about it. It was a nice surprise to see your review pop up. Definitely brought back those great moments and now I wanna go back and read it again. Also, how great a name is “the gentleman bastards”😂
I didn't think much of it before I read, but fell in LOVE with it while reading. Such a great group name and I also loved their little "LIAR" cheer
You had basically the same feelings as I did on this book!
I found the beginning present-day story super slow and not very interesting, but I was enjoying the flashback scenes quite a bit. I also didn't realize I had any feelings for the characters until the same moment as you. The ending got long-winded at a point, but the actual ending-ending was a banger, so 4/5 stars for me.
I've never read any of the sequels!
literally perfectly summed up my thoughts lol! I'll probably read the sequel at some point and maybe that will help you decide since we felt so similarly about the first
I am also planning to read 'Gentlemen Bastards' this year so excited to see what you have to say.
I absolutely love the book. It doesn't pull its punches, but also lets the locke and jean do amazing things. It makes the wins feel very deserved.
I feel like the next few books don't do this as well. Still doesn't pull punches, but I feel like oike the duo can never get a win in like in the first book with the death tribute.
I really loved this book (5*) but actually had a pretty tough time getting through the sequel (3*) and then never even tried the 3rd. 🤷♂️ I’d be curious of your thoughts on the sequels though to decide if I should reread and continue on since I read them a long time ago and maybe my opinion will change.
I got into this series because of Merphy and Red Seas Under Red Skies is my favorite of the trilogy. I agree that the beginning of Lies is difficult to get through, but RSURS was easier to jump in and continue from what I remember. Definitely recommend you give it a try. I started book 3 and similar to book 1, I am struggling with the beginning's pacing. Trying to ease myself into regularly reading with shorter works before finishing this book since it is so dense.
I read it last year as a tandem read and I wanna continue as I quite enjoyed the story and am intrigued by Sabetha.
I enjoyed all three books. You really see Jean and Locke's relationship become the central focus as they rely on each other and go through so much together in the next 2 books. The world opens up as they travel and with more flashbacks it fills out more of their backstory. And then book 3 ends on a big cliffhanger. Hopefully we get more books in the series, the author said he's still been writing but has massive anxiety about having anyone read it. So he has been working on dealing with the depression/ anxiety with therapy and drugs that he feels are working better for him and he is publishing some short stories set in world to help him slowly get back into it
I personally love the sequels. I think they don't get recommended much because the third book ends on a massive cliffhanger and there hasn't been another book in 13 years or so
well you know me, 13 year gaps in publishing is kind of my style these days
It's not just that it's a cliffhanger, it's that it's not even a good plot development. No one wants it resolved.
There is a new short story in the most recent Grimdark magazine though that takes place after book 3. (haven't read it yet) But it seems like Lynch has overcome his writers block and is working on the remainder of the series again.
Read all three for sure! We named our cat Sabetha (a major character in book 3).
I like that you describe this as a good fantasy that you can recommend to pretty much anyone to read. That makes a lot of sense - I look over at my bookshelf and see Locke Lamora right next to Name of the Wind, which I feel is in the same category - easy book to recommend to someone who isn't a fantasy person but you know they'll enjoy it (also sorry not sorry this series isn't finished).
As for the sequels? I think people don't talk about them as much because well, if you like the first one, you'll read the rest. And if not, why talk about the sequels? I will say personally for me - the whole series kinda stresses me out. Like you mentioned with things keep going wrong. And then coming up in the series...friends falling out or being angry at each other...or just...lots of drama. It's all a bit much. But - you may still like!
Keep going. I really enjoyed Red Seas Under Red Skies, but *love* Republic of Thieves.
Finally someone else!
This is my second favorite series behind ASOIAF, so of course I'd say keep going! 😊
I initially DNFed it because I couldnt get very far before I had to return it to the library. Reread it about a month ago and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Great book! I would recommend the next two books.
Each book they go to new city-states for new adventures. Book 2 does start an arc that is revolved in Book 3 and while there are lingering mysteries, I don't feel left in the lurch like waiting for Winds of Winter or the Doors of Stone--or Stormlight 6 for that matter. Oh, and when the woman Locke pines for, Sabetha, finally shows up, she does not disappoint. She is his match in every way.
I'm currently reading the second book and it is good. I nearly choked laughing so hard while reading Locke and Jeans introduction to a new set of characters.
Is it as good as Lies? Hmm, so far I say yes.
I REALLY like red seas under red skies. One of the places they spend a good portion of the story in is one of my favorite in any book. Republic of thieves in my opinion is not as good as the first two but you get a lot of the backstory
I love the Locke books! All three are worth reading. They add romance and higher stakes. Have you read the other two Robin Hobb Fitz trilogies? They are as good as the Farseer books!
I feel like reading the next 2 books in the series just for the character interactions makes it worth it! There are highs and lows in both but the past to present back and forth are just as good mixed with several new interesting characters and plots!
Red Seas Under Red Skies is my favorite book of the three, but I'm a sucker for anything related to pirates.
It’s like you decided to go with “hey nyurds, watz zup” and thought: this is perfect, I’ll never grow!
Just been on another YT’s book club in January where we read this book. We rated it 4*’s on average. Was a strong premise and character buildings but the ending didn’t quite land
I really loved the villain. If the story was told from their perspective, they would almost be the hero. Their struggles, achievements, and triumphs are practically the traits you see in protagonists. That's my most memorable take away from this great book.
I dropped it because of the slow start, I might pick it up again thanks to you :D
I liked both of the sequels. Book 3 was more like book 1 for me, and it definitely starts to jet through time towards the end, kind of like "How to lose the time war", but it was pretty satisfying. Book 2, I REALLY like, but the beginning is a bit stressful. Our heroes are in a pretty dark place that really goes on for awhile. Then at around the 50% mark, the whole story changes dramatically, before coming back around to a satisfying conclusion.
I have tried 4 different times to get into this book. And I can't make it past the first 20 pages. I keep hearing how great it is. But it hasn't hooked me. Maybe fifth time will be the charm if I try it again.
Well like I said, I felt the beginning was pretty slow. So maybe knowing that will help push through? But also if you tried that many times it might just not be worth it 😂😂
@@Bookborn I disliked it more and more as it went on. I feel it started bad and just continued to get worse. I appreciate that you are able to find the positives in most any book but it's just bad
I think I don't hype up the others as much because
1) I do think you gotta read LoLL first, and
2) At some level, I think of the whole series as both The Gentlemen Bastards and The Lies of Locke Lamora, since Locke is the main protagonist even in the later books
Just a quick note, I listened to the audiobook and apparently Jean is pronounced the french way! :) so, a bit like Shawn! :) but I know that once you have set on a name it is that forever no matter the canon haha
Red Seas Under Red Skies and Republic of Thieves are both fun reads. Lies of Locke Lamora was probably my favorite of all three, but I'd still recommend the others, especially if you like pirates and plays.
I think you should continue, I don't like book 2 and 3 as much as book 1, and they are both a little cliffhangery, but they are still good, and I don't think you will be that bothered by waiting on the more cliffhangery ending
It was so surprised by how much I enjoyed these books.
I love book 2 as much as book 1, maybe even more. I think that's partly because the naval part of it was amazing. There are some incredible secondary characters too. I was not a fan of book 3 though, and unfortunately didn't love the direction the story hints at at the end.
I don't if I read it in 2020 or 2021. I remember reading it and Gardens of the Moon very close together. I'm almost certain read Locke Lamora first. I wasn't blowen away but it's an enjoyable read.
It is a well written book. I went into it for the crew-that-does-heists vibe, which I greatly enjoyed. I'm more of a fan of the general fellowship than the Frodo and Sam story in LotR, so you will likely be unsurprised to find that I didn't care for the latter portion of the book. I read the whole thing, hoping that the events of the turning point would be undone somehow. Since it was not, I have no real interest in the rest of the series.
I do enjoy stories with a pair of friends, like the Riyria books by Michael J. Sullivan. Sadly I think in the case of this series, though, the bitterness from the original setup would loom over any future books and spoil it for me.
Favorite book. Period.
4 out of 5 is about what I would give it.
I mean it's a 5 out of 5 heist story or buddy story. But on a general fantasy book scale this is a nice 80% - 85% one for me. Verry good. Would recomend.
I don't think I felt fatigue on the darkness and depression because every bad thing that happened seemed to move the plot forward - another interesting obstacle for our boys - great popcorn thriller. Then at the same time there's interesting world building going on - the descriptions of that old city glass was enchanting - creepy mages, crime family drama, and witty repartee (one of the compelling factors was if they'd loose that devil-may-care freedom with the weight of the bad stuff). He also did a great trick to keep it from dragging by telling the backstory every other chapter along with the current, so there's an anthology of stories that usually had something to say about the other story!
I gave it 4.5 just because I know some stories hit me on a deeper level, but for what it was doing, I think it did perfectly. Haven't read the other 2 yet, but I totally want to.
The second on is also great. I just like it a little more, cause I think the two plots don't fit as good as they do in the first one, however, if you love Locke and Jean moments Red seas under red skies is for you. On the third one Jean takes a step back in the story, I still liked it very much tho.
The second one is Locke and Jean become pirates. So fun and I would say as good as the first. Third book is more flashbacks to the gang as kids and the parallels between a theater performance heist they do back then and a political election they try to influence in the present. It’s fun too but I found it slower than the second one
On mt TBR for 2025 too, but I’ve not been so good at getting around to it so fast. 😊
Book 2 is really great! - my favourite of the 3. I think often when people recommend 'Locke Lamora' they mean the 3 books not just the first. Get a cup of tea and get started now I suggest :) (I also thought the start of book 1 was slow and nearly quit. I don't think there are slow bits like that in the second and third).
PLEASE read the other books. The first one was a three-star for me. It was fine but I wasn't crazy about it. Book two ended up being my book of the year.
I really enjoyed reading the book but for some reason I have zero drive to read the next books in the series. I have them on my shelf, but it has been over a year and it hasn't happened yet. That is not how I normally read series. I don't know why, but somehow the one book was enough for me. Maybe some day.
I think you’d like book 2 and especially the flashback scenes in book 3 better. I love all 3, but some readers just won’t connect with the story until they get the full history of these guys pieced together over the 3 books. If you prefer complicated guy/girl romances over just pure “bromance” stories, you’ll like book 3 just for that reason.
Adjusting lighting diffuses nose shine.
i got a new highlighter and it is much shinier than my last one, that aint lighting lmao
I didn’t like book 2 quite as much as book 1 but i still really enjoyed it overall. There are things i like about book 3 and others that i dislike, particularly the ending. I enjoyed the series as a whole though for the characters and Locke and Jean is my second favorite duo behind only Royce and Hadrian
I think the sequels live up to the first book. I don't think they are overwhelmingly weaker or stronger, so it may be more to taste which is better, but if anything the Jean and Locke is stronger in the sequels, so I don't think you'll be disappointed if you continue.
Ah, so, the sequels are less standalone, and my perspective is that there's... less _consensus_ on the sequels. It's not that people _dislike_ them, but often individual people will really like book 1 and book 2, but think book 3 is just alright, or book 1 and book 3, but think book 2 is just okay. Not *dislike.* Just much messier feelings on them compared to book 1, with everyone able to find things they really like in each one, but each one doesn't click as widely as the first book - there's bits that work for some people and not for others in a bigger way than in book 1.
I think it’s worth continuing the series. All the books are good but do get progressively worse IMO. In particular the 3rd book does something that changes the trajectory of the series that I’m not sure I’m thrilled about… we’ll see
2:30 I have never understood why people compare this to oceans eleven lol, I don't think it's like that in the slightest. That being said this is one of my favorite series of all time haha.
Fans prosper, the reviewer remember
Loved Red Seas Under Red Skies, I would go on!
I had a bet with myself when I saw this come up that you would pronounce Jean 'Jeen' and I am both richer and poorer now 😂 I feel like this is a common one, though. (Great review, have similar feelings towards it though maybe a touch more positive)
this made me lol honestly I'm a les mis fan so I really don't know why it didn't click that it's clearly that Jean pronunciation? Literally didn't even cross my mind while I was reading ☠
I read it last year and found it very enjoyable
Jean is the best!
Personally I enjoyed 2nd book more than 1st just because I was already invested in the story/world.
I loved the first book even if it was a bit slow on the present time story in the beginning.. The second book is even slower though, and it never caught on like the first one. For that reason, I have still not read the third.
All 3 books are excellent and suprising
Hated it could not finish - I was amazed so many people gushed about it….
The banter and characters are excellent. But it can get distracting if you start paying too much attention to the heist bits.
The sequels have a similar heist scenarios. But they can be fun if you want a break from less thinky books.
The second book is Locke and Jean + Pirates. The Third book is Locke and Jean vs Sabetha (Locke Ex) in a political battle.
Gosh i read this series a very long time ago, i agree with other commenters that the second book is actually better.
I loved Red Seas Under Red Skies more but its not as well written, get messy towards the end, a heist and pirate story combined but mixed. The parts that work are excellent though, Locke and Jean are so fun.
Republic Of Thieves is worth a go but i wasn't into either plotline more just the main characters. Nothing is broken that cant be fixed tho
merphy gonna loooove this
Loved this book from start to end! had to DNF the second book though.
Each book basically tells itsown story, so I dont think it not ending is actually as bad as ASoIaF, so I think reading the next 2 if you liked it enough makes sense.
Some people like the sequels even more than the first, for me the first is definitely the strongest but I still very much enjoyed both of the sequels
The 2nd book is the best
Book z was my favorite book and has a great heist scene.
If you found the "everything is going wrong" trope tedious in the 1st book, don't read the others - Locke lies, Jean cleans up his mess, and blah blah blah. "Lies" was fine on its own..
Book 2 is my favorite of the three.
If you liked the first book, you will like the sequels, especially if you like the relationship between Locke and Jean.
Audiobook listeners like me: "who's Gene?"
I heard many great things about this series so I bought the 3 books. I finished the first book but it was a STRUGGLE. I wanted to DNF but I persevered. I ended up returning the other 2 books.
I hated it because I hate heists and pirates and this one had both 😅 but it's a good book
I thought books one was ok. 3.5 stars for me. IIRC book two was not as good and book three was on par with book one. I generally don’t recommend them because they weren’t 4 stars for me.
I am still waiting for Howling Dark