The Way of Shadows is the first book in Brent Weeks’ Night Angel Series. We follow premier assassin Durzo Blint as he finds himself taking on an apprentice in the form of a desperate boy from the slums. Desperation, and a way to save his fellow guild rats, makes Azoth a unique prospect for Durzo, but an assassin’s job and life are not easy as Azoth soon finds out. Having to leave his old life and friends behind we follow along as Azoth soon learns to become someone to be feared and respected; just like his master.

The book is written from various view points, some of which only begin to make sense as the story progresses. I quite enjoyed how many scheming parties are involved, and the grand scale of things to come in the next two books. The story does well to keep the reader engaged, and also guessing as to what can happen next. One thing I didn’t expect was the brutality of certain scenes. Its also very possible I mentally pictured something far worse than what happened on the pages, but just know that some scenes are very Game of Thrones-y. There were plot points I felt weren’t clarified but it is very likely they will be addressed in the next two books.

Definitely a book I’d recommend to anyone interested in a slightly dark epic fantasy novel. Fans of Game of Thrones and the Farseer series will definitely enjoy this book.

Rating: 4/5

Links:

• goodreads: The Way of Shadows – Brent Weeks