A main character who is a rural orphan with hints of a mysterious genealogy? Check. While Luck in the Shadows isn't 'epic' fantasy per se-it does hint at some epic big-E Evil plot but it's not deeply explored, and one description I read calling the book a 'fantasy of manners' feels more appropriate-it does contain a number of old-school fantasy tropes. They're also both likable-this is not a gritty, warts-and-all story with grim, flawed characters (I enjoy stories with grim, flawed characters, but frankly the 'nice' factor in the characters of Luck in the Shadows was a pleasant change-the book was published in 1996 and thus significantly predates the current grim- and pseudo-grimdark vogue.) Supporting characters share these traits as well-realistic and pleasant to read about (even the one 'unlikable' ally character is just sort of a dick and not a psychopath or anything). Seregil was occasionally a bit too witty for my tastes, but if you like witty banter there's enough and to spare. He acts as a good mentor to Alec, and Alec in turn is a good foil and counterpart to Seregil. Alec is somewhat naive but he's also capable, Seregil is a talented Jack-of-(most)-trades but never comes across as an overpowered Swiss army knife. They feel realistic, but at the same time display room for growth through the story. The primary strength of the book lies in the characters, especially Alec and Seregil. However, I liked how the book organically depicts sexuality and gender roles (gay and bisexual characters are unremarkable, and women have regular access to combat and political roles), and I would definitely recommend the book for someone looking for some old-school fantasy derring-do. Ultimately, the book didn't come together for me-I didn't hate it, but I was distinctly unimpressed by the prose and I was thrown by pacing issues with the plot. When Seregil rescues Alec from a noble's dungeon, he takes the boy on as his apprentice, and the novel follows the two as they make their way to the Skalan city of Rhíminee where they become involved in political machinations against the queen. Luck in the Shadows, the first book in Lynn Flewelling's 'Nightrunner' series, introduces us to Alec, a young hunter, and Seregil, a charming thief and spy.

Luck in the shadows by lynn flewelling