The Golden Fool (Part 2)
Friendship, love, betrayal: three faces of the same mirror.
Synopsis
The Out Islanders arrive at Buckkeep. The prince's betrothal must seal the alliance — but Princess Elliania demands a challenge: to bring the head of a black, ice-bound dragon enshrined in the glaciers of Aslevjal. While Fitz forms a Skill circle from candidates including former forged brothers, the Fool begins to glimpse the end of their friendship.
Slow and weighty, this volume meticulously constructs the threads that will tie together in the next book. Hobb proves her mastery of portraiture, introspective pause, and dialogue. The friction between Fitz and the Fool, against a backdrop of prophetic visions and jealousies, reaches a rare intensity here.
The Fool does not lie. He only chooses which truths to offer.
Key characters
Fitz, Le Fou, Devoir, Elliania, Pluchet, Ortie, Umbre
Themes
Fiançailles, Cercle d'Art, Prophétie, Amitié contrariée