The Way of Shadows

By: Brent Weeks

Narrated by: Simon Vance

From NYT bestselling author Brent Weeks comes the first novel in his breakout fantasy trilogy in which a young boy trains under the city's most legendary and feared assassin, Durzo Blint.

For Durzo Blint, assassination is an art -- and he is the city's most accomplished artist.

For Azoth, survival is precarious. Something you never take for granted. As a guild rat, he's grown up in the slums, and learned to judge people quickly -- and to take risks. Risks like apprenticing himself to Durzo Blint.

But to be accepted, Azoth must turn his back on his old life and embrace a new identity and name. As Kylar Stern, he must learn to navigate the assassins' world of dangerous politics and strange magics -- and cultivate a flair for death.

Critic reviews

"What a terrific story! I was mesmerized from start to finish. Unforgettable characters, a plot that kept me guessing, non-stop action and the kind of in-depth storytelling that makes me admire a writer's work." --- Terry Brooks

"Kylar is a wonderful character - sympathetic and despicable, cowardly and courageous, honorable and unscrupulous...a breathtaking debut!" --- Dave Duncan

Nice combo of light/dark

Plenty of cheesy moments, but has dark parts too. Plot is layered, characters have depth. Simon Vance, as usual, does an absolutely amazing job.

Read this years ago...audio was an even better experience.

Teriffic character development and immersive world. Author's descriptions leaves you feeling like you are there experiencing the action yourself.

The writing is like watching a movie

I've read these books years ago, before the lightbringer series had started. They are just as good now, as they were then. Can't wait to listen to the rest!

Stick with it

I wasn’t sure about this one when I first started it. I almost gave up on it a couple of times, but I’m glad I did not. I enjoyed it.

Outstanding

This book has some of the richest storytelling I’ve ever experienced. 5/5 have read 5 times.