First off, this book is not a stand-alone. Both the current plot and the flashbacks assume knowledge of the previous books, especially of 'The Lies of Locke Lamora.'
Secondly, this book foregoes the intricate, convoluted plotting of the first two books in the series. In 'Thieves,' all three 'Bastards' rely primarily on much less elaborate antics to outwit each other - and sometimes even just to get under one another's skin. There is an endearing quality to this, though, which also highlights how well Locke, Jean and Sabetha truly know each other. It's really the relationship between Locke and Sabetha that centers this story. Some readers might not like that. I found that I enjoyed it immensely, perhaps because, at this point in the series, I'm as invested in these highly likable characters' personal lives as in any of their professional machinations.
As always, Lynch is a master of the backstory/flashback, which is as engaging and exciting as the current-time narrative. Also impressive is his ability to craft a female character as interesting and with as much life and depth as Locke and Jean. Lynch even understands sexism to a degree I've rarely seen from other male authors.
I bought this book the day it came out in paperback, and I will probably do the same with 'The Thorn of Emberlain,' which I can only hope retains the same characters. I suppose that means I am officially a Scott Lynch fan.
Secondly, this book foregoes the intricate, convoluted plotting of the first two books in the series. In 'Thieves,' all three 'Bastards' rely primarily on much less elaborate antics to outwit each other - and sometimes even just to get under one another's skin. There is an endearing quality to this, though, which also highlights how well Locke, Jean and Sabetha truly know each other. It's really the relationship between Locke and Sabetha that centers this story. Some readers might not like that. I found that I enjoyed it immensely, perhaps because, at this point in the series, I'm as invested in these highly likable characters' personal lives as in any of their professional machinations.
As always, Lynch is a master of the backstory/flashback, which is as engaging and exciting as the current-time narrative. Also impressive is his ability to craft a female character as interesting and with as much life and depth as Locke and Jean. Lynch even understands sexism to a degree I've rarely seen from other male authors.
I bought this book the day it came out in paperback, and I will probably do the same with 'The Thorn of Emberlain,' which I can only hope retains the same characters. I suppose that means I am officially a Scott Lynch fan.
