The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch, the first installment in his Gentleman Bastards series, is arguably the best book I’ve read since George R.R. Martin’s A Storm of Swords. In fact, I venture to say it’s one of the finest pieces of fantasy fiction I’ve had the pleasure of delving into for many years.
The novel tells the story of a young, orphaned thief, Locke Lamora, in the Venice-inspired city of Camorr. Locke is no ordinary thief; he’s an ingenious swindler, executing elaborate cons on the city’s elite with his band of misfits known as the “Gentleman Bastards.”
Lynch masterfully intertwines two timelines throughout the novel, oscillating between Locke’s present-day endeavors and the journey that led him to his life of thievery. In the present timeline, we follow the Gentleman Bastards in their ambitious undertaking to orchestrate the grandest theft of their careers, all while a mysterious adversary known as the Gray King lurks in the background, ruthlessly murdering members of Camorr’s criminal underworld.
In addition to the gripping story, Lynch’s worldbuilding is fantastic. He ingeniously infuses semi-magical elements such as alchemical globes, elderglass structures, and the remnants of the ancient, advanced civilization known as the Eldren into the meticulously crafted cityscape of Camorr, making the setting as much a character as Locke or his companions.
However, the beauty of this book lies not in the complexity of its plot or the grandeur of its world-building but in the depth of its characters. Locke Lamora is a character of immense complexity—a lovable rogue, a master of deception, a man of undeniable loyalty, and, above all, a hero whose flaws only make him more relatable. Supporting characters like Jean Tannen, the Gentleman Bastards’ brawn and Locke’s loyal friend, add richness to the narrative through their interactions, filled with humor and camaraderie.
Overall, The Lies of Locke Lamora is a masterpiece—engrossing, clever, and daring—a novel that, in my view, stands tall in the realm of fantasy literature. It’s frankly been a long time since a book has managed to captivate me in such a profound way. If you are a lover of intricate plots, nuanced characters, and immersive world-building, this book is a rare gem you won’t want to miss.