Book 2), Mad Ship (The Liveship Traders

Amazing writing, coupled with superb three dimensional characters that never cease to amaze me in their depth. A great continuation of the previous story, truly a marvel for one's imagination. Completely recommend it!

Well written book, great story that adds to the full series of books written in this universe Hobb has created, while still maintaining a seperate story you can enjoy without reading previous books.
eBook version is mostly well done, no obvious editing problems or layout issues.

This was a series of books I could not put down -a story that I keep thinking about long after I finished reading it. Like her first series, these books are very well written. I enjoyed the ride. Highly recommended!

I have read books 1 and 2 and am going to start book 3 - The Ship Of Destiny - now . They are a great read , so real , I can smell and feel as I read . I hope Robin Hobb writes more along this vein. Thank you Robin !

went through the first two volumes, and collapsed during this one. reminds me of Jordan and his wheel, why does it take 100 pages and 5 chapters for one scene to unfold, and 600 pages for a 10 page story to be told?
the dreaming snakes are so boring, just like the wheel, turns on and on, or like the rock: rolls and rolls, but not much moss
The assassin series was much more efficient... I don't mind descriptions and feelings but repetition and lack of imagination shows too much in this one, Hobb really labored hard to conclude this series...

Overall, this is a good continuation from the first installment of the trilogy. Malta's character fully blossomed on this book along with that of Wintrow. All culminates with Tintiglia's liberation from its captivity. The story flows smoothly and the interest augments as the story develops. We'll see what the final installment brings forth...

Another great story from one of my favorite tellers! Could t put it down, read the whole darn thing in a week and a half even with full time work. Her world building brings you right into the characters lives and she knows how to create characters that are complex and flawed and perfectly believable.

A true master I will read anything this woman puts out there be it published book or random thoughts on a napkin!

Overall, I would say that this sequel is an improvement over the first Liveship Traders book. The plot moves a little more quickly, and there's great character work turning the most insufferable figure from the previous story into a compelling protagonist. These features build nicely on the swashbuckling pirate action and intricate fantasy worldbuilding that author Robin Hobb has previously established and create solid momentum going into the concluding volume.

With that being said, the sexual politics of the trilogy still leave much to be desired. One viewpoint character in this novel is raped repeatedly over the course of a long sea voyage; another escapes a similar attempt only by brutally fighting off her assailant. (Neither of these is even the rape scene I had remembered before this reread, which I guess must take place in the third book.) There's also the continuing romance of an adult man courting a young teenage girl, which is never framed as particularly problematic even when characters are directly calling her an immature child. None of this seems at all essential for the story that Hobb is telling, and it may not be what some readers are looking for in their escapist fiction.

As is often the case with second books in fantasy trilogies, The Mad Ship does not so much advance the plot as sets the stage for the final installment, fleshes out the characters and fills out some important gaps in the lore.

Don't get me wrong, there's a lot of stuff happening in the book. Compared, say, to the unbearable slogs of some Wheel of Time, it's practically an action-packed amphetamine-fueled ride. But compared to your standard epic fantasy fare, it can be a bit slow at times. As seems to be her custom, Hobb fills the book with reams of long-winded expository dialogue and skips arbitrarily lengthy periods of time in her narration. You often encounter terse description of pretty important events that happened between chapters and go, um, don't you think this deserved a bit more attention? Like a separate chapter, maybe?.

But, if like me, you enjoy world-building in fantasy series, you will love this book. There are a lot of tasty morsels here that uncover new layers of complexity and weirdness in the Realm of the Elderlings' lore. I'd hate to spoil them for you, so just believe me on that:) Perhaps more importantly there is a sense of coherence and purpose permeating the book: you are sure that author knows where she's going with all the character growth and plot threads and lore stuff and she will arrive there on time – which is more than you can say about *cough* some other fantasy juggernauts out there. As a result, I'm pretty hyped about reading the final book in the trilogy. In fact I can't remember the last time I was that excited about reading a fantasy novel.

The fortunes of the Vestrit family have become more desperate. Their liveship, the Vivacia, has been captured by the notorious "pirate king" Kennit and is now helping liberate slaver ships on the seas between Jamaillia and Chalced. The Vestrits have no choice but to help refloat the mad liveship Paragon in the hope they can convince the deranged vessel to help them regain the ship and rescue their kin.

The Mad Ship is the middle volume of The Liveship Traders trilogy and very much reads like one. The story doesn't really start or finish, instead transitioning from the beginning to the end without necessarily having a defining storyline itself. The storylines begun in Ship of Magic are pretty strong so having them continue is fine, and the new additions to the world - a subplot involving the Satrap of Jamaillia and one of his Consorts, and a new story set in an Elderling city in the Rain River Wilds - are well-judged and engrossing.

However, the novel definitely loses some of the pace and momentum of Ship of Magic, which remains my favourite Hobb novel (again, only having read the first six). Hobb's net is cast wider here and the story, world and characters remain fascinating, but there's also much greater periods of time in which nothing much seems to be happening, or we touch base (again) with the Vestrit family having another grim conference about the status of the lower field and getting embarrassed with a family friend whose clothes are a bit old.

Still, if the momentum isn't quite as swift as in the previous novel, Hobb's other strengths remain on full display. The depth of characterisation is remarkable, especially of previously-annoying characters like Malta who develops impressively in this novel beyond the more stereotypical, troublesome teenager of the first book. The biggest success is in the curious relationship between Kennit, Etta, Wintrow and Vivacia, which defies cliche at every turn and becomes a gripping study in character dynamics, power structures and obligation (Hobb does torpedo this, rather frustratingly, in the final volume of the trilogy but at this point it's fascinating).

There's also some uncharacteristic (for Hobb) large-scale action scenes which she handles well, some more deft political maneuverings and some effective mystical dream sequences which hint at a major plot revelation about the nature of the liveships and their place in the world.

The Mad Ship (****) doesn't impress as much as Ship of Magic and definitely feels like it's a slower, more relaxed book, but it evolves the story and characters nicely and sets things up well for the final (and rather more problematic) volume in the trilogy, Ship of Destiny.

With Vivacia taken by pirates and the Satrap en route to Bingtown, revolution approaches the Cursed Shores. This is a difficult book to review alone, because it is distinctly more of the same in a style one ("one book with extra pieces of cardboard") series and not an independent story in itself. As with the first book, this is overlong but its relaxed style and intimate focus on a large cast is immersive. It's frequently unpleasant to read, as sexism and slavery remain forefront and this time PoV characters experience sexual assault and rape, and because interpersonal dynamics are plagued by manipulation and poor communication. But this is balanced by significant character growth and magical worldbuilding of larger scale and detail than was present in the Farseer Trilogy. Despite flaws and caveats, I find this series absorbing; I look forward to the final book.

I very much enjoyed Ship of Magic. The only fault I had with Ship was that it slowed down often. I felt that it was overly repetitive on the emotional side. Mad Ship felt like a stagnation to me. I felt that Hobb might have approached the two stories differently. Ship of Magic felt like an exploration. I thought Hobb was discovering the world as she wrote it out. This time around, it felt like she plotted it out before writing and in my mind this made the story feel like Hobb was going about tying everything up. Not very much new happens. Or at least not much new for a book of this size.

There isn't a ton of romance here, but I found what is here to be tedious. Other than the pirate kings unexpected wooing, the rest of it was over done.

Forewarning: I'm a spoiler purist, and so try to avoid spoilers as much as possible in my reviews, including basic information about both plot and characters. As a result, my reviews are somewhat vague, but I try my best to keep things spoiler-free.

After `Ship of Magic' I had a bit of time to reflect on it. The thing I came to think about most is - where does it go from here? While the larger story was left unfinished, a few of the plotlines were finished very conclusively. As a result, `Mad Ship' spends alot of time caught in transition.

This book picks up where the last left off, a naturally exciting beginning. The ramifications of the concluding events in `Ship of Magic' are caught up on and developed, and they provide the force behind the narrative here. However, a huge chunk of the book is then dedicated to some new set-up for the rest of the story.

In itself this isn't a problem, unless you're the type of reader who thinks that character-driven books consist of so much navel-gazing (hint: look for people saying the characters are whiny and angst-ridden), which I'm not. That being said, the interim period needs to engage me. This is normally something Hobb does well, compared to `Ship of Magic', `Mad Ship' comes off unfavourably. The character conflict's duller here, and not so clearly defined; they're just as complex, but not as easily understood. I think this is due in part to both the expanded scope of `Mad Ship' and the conclusion of past character relationships. As I said previously, this book is very much a question of `what now?'
I think there's also a slightly greater focus on events which aren't predominantly driven by character relationships; alot of these conflicts fall into the backdrop of the larger plot-driven elements.
(Incidentally, I don't think the sagging middle would be as much of a problem if this book weren't so darn long. It draws out the less engaging parts, and then you spend so much time reading you begin forgetting the parts you loved.)

There's still alot of character development here, and most of it is fantastic and totally believable. The only problem I have with it is that some of these changes are so abrupt, which is very uncharacteristic of Hobb. There's little indication that this is the way things are going, which is hard to follow when some of it is a necessarily gradual change. And these are serious about-faces. Normally Hobb shows the process of these changes, but not here, which I think is really the root of the problem.

I feel this is also related to the uneven structure of this book. The different characters get large chunks of writing dedicated to their respective plots all at once, e.g. 150-200 pages at a time. This coincides with large chunks of action occurring at different parts of the timeline. As a result large chunks of time, and the events occurring over that time, are omitted before we return to other character perspectives. Some of these middle events are recounted, most are not. It also presents a problem similar to the character changes I mentioned above, in that the plot is disjointed and so characters often make extreme movements between geography and events. I preferred the balance she set in book 1 to be much more to my liking.

Still, for all my complaining this is a good book. The character arcs progress in a logical and engaging, albeit occasionally frustrating, way. The development and characterisation is superb, as ever, and the antagonists only continue to progress in a delightful way.

There are also some very interesting plot developments. The story of the serpents is fleshed out and made much clearer, and how they fit into these books is written in a very clever way. The plot arcs of several other characters contribute to this too, with some added peripheral actions which sets up the lines that will draw everything together.

The relevant plot for the immediate story - the `what happens next?' following `Ship of Magic' - is also kicked off. It's fast to start with, and though it involves some engaging storytelling it ends up slowing down gradually. It also suffers from progressing the story; when the old events are finally left behind, both the plot and characters meander. They don't have the immediate development from `Ship of Magic' to fall back on. Characters are left behind, their relationships and developed tension gone with them, and unfortunately that leaves the other characters in a semi-limbo, where the reader is left trying to get their bearings. Even though these new developments are obviously building up to something and are getting more intriguing, they don't get there this book. As I've talked about, alot of these events are, ostensibly, set-up for future events.

There's also an expansion of the story scope, taking the narrative to a much bigger level. This slows down the pace of the book, and also distracts from other story elements, but by the end of the book it's almost integrated. This also applies to the magic involved in this trilogy, which gets both added depth and a more comprehensive scope. All this is fantastic, because it begins to pull at all the characters trying to do their own thing, and begins putting pressure on them from a new source.

The ending of `Mad Ship' isn't as conclusive as `Ship of Magic'; it's a natural ending point, but almost every plot and character arc is left unresolved. It's all over the place, but that doesn't matter so much. It makes the trilogy feel like one very big book more than the ending to `Ship of Magic'. This ending is a good lead-in to the next book, though given some of the issues in this book I'm unsure about revising my expectations downward.

4/5

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Mad Ship, and despite its length got through it fairly quickly. The plot moves at a good clip, and many of the problems I had with Ship of Magic are gone from the sequel: there's less bloat, and the overall arc of the trilogy becomes clear, as do the roles of Paragon and the serpents. Even Wintrow (my least favorite character in this trilogy) was better here.

And yet, certain plot contrivances keep this book from getting four stars. The biggest one is the mission several characters undertake to rescue Vivicia. The chances of that particular plot working out are so farfetched that I didn't believe for a moment the levelheaded Vestrit women would agree to it, and so it seemed that Hobb swept all the characters' common sense under the rug to get that particular plot. Additionally, this is the book where several main characters all improve their personalities, and while there's certainly an explanation for each individual arc.... how is it that in one book, Malta grows up and loses her mean streak, Brashen loses his drug addiction, and everyone (including Etta herself) forgets about Etta's propensity to torture people? Hobb does characterization well, but I just wasn't entirely convinced.

Overall, though, I don't think this is a bad book. It has a fun, exciting plot with well-developed characters. The world is rather bland and under-described, but it's not cookie-cutter fantasyland by any means, and the larger political situation and the characters' personal stories are well woven together here. I would certainly recommend this book to those who enjoyed Ship of Magic, and even if you were on the fence, in my opinion this one is better.

The truly amazing thing about Liveship Traders is that Robin Hobb has created a society...wait, what? Isn't that the goal of (almost) all second world authors? Yes, but I don't mean that Hobb created a list of rules, or a collection of customs, or a homogenous mass of bizarre rituals. No, Hobb's creation is multi faceted and deep, beautifully realized and felt with every word that's read of her creation.

Characters, or people, are shaped by the world around them - even as they, in turn, shape that world - and few authors better understand this than Hobb. Nobody in these novels exists in a vacuum. Instead, each and every character is a result of their environment, whether they are struggling to live up to the expectations of others or trying to break entirely away from those predefined paths.

This is character driven fiction in every sense of the word; the plot meanders and grows, always organically, as a result of the characters' decisions, even when that character is wrong or misguided. Main characters will end up opposing one another, threads will wander and twist, and some events even seem to be striving in the opposite direction of the rest of the novel, but there is not a single point where a viewpoint feels false, where a plan seems concocted only for convenience's sake.

In order for something like this to work, the characters need to be exceptional. And they are. These are people driven by their own desires and needs, who have their own goals and fears, and always act in a way dictated by their virtues and flaws. Everyone here believes their own goals to be paramount, and, within that character's viewpoint, it is impossible to think otherwise. Hobb's skill is not to make the epic personal, but rather to make the personal the stuff of epics. Simple tragedies, the kind that we experience without having to fight dark lords upon mountaintops, the kinds that form the core of almost every life, are the center of this story.

Personal injustices affect us just as much as they do the characters. The catalyst for much of the trilogy is Althea's loss of her liveship, the Vivacia. Convinced that her sister's husband would be better able to support the family as a whole, Althea's father deprives her of her inheritance. The scene hits with the emotional impact of Martin's famous Red Wedding. This was never a world shattering event, and yet I was as furious as I'd ever been made while reading; at that moment, if I'd had the ability to reach into the book, I would have throttled Kyle Haven.

Even that, however, is not where the true power of Liveship Traders lies, because, you see, Hobb's characterization is unbiased, and, when I was in Kyle's head, I understood his reasons, I understood why he did what he had to do, I even agreed with him. The fact that Hobb can do both ends, can make both sides feel as just as the other, can stir up the reader's one way and then twist it the other, is the core of The Liveship Traders success.

Furthermore, the lackadaisical pace of The Liveship Traders gives characters time to grow. These books are not a series of trials or challenges from which the characters come out at the end with a tidy moral lesson. They are, instead, brutal transformations, where every character is morphed and shaped by the events around them and by what they have to experience. Often, at the end of difficult journeys, characters will be presented with what they've been striving for, only to realize that it no longer fits them as it once did.

Malta is a great example of this. At the book's start, she is spoiled and childish, not to mention wholly unlikable. As time progresses, she's forced to mature. By the book's end, she is a totally different person, even though the characteristics that shaped her before are still present, and even though she never went through a magical epiphany that reorganized her whole personality in a single, glorious instant.

The first book in the trilogy, Ship of Magic, is slow to start, as many of the characters seem unsympathetic, and the cast as a whole is too far apart to really influence one another yet. Still, the characterization draws you in within only a few pages, and you're soon enthralled as events that start simple slowly begin to spiral out of control.

The supernatural is muted here, present but far from center stage. What few elements of true magic there are are blended seamlessly into the rest of the narrative, made normal by the character's perceptions and used to emphasize the cast's humanity rather than to simply drive the plot.

Mad Ship is where the stakes are upped throughout, with the beginnings of the plot that will link the series together becoming apparent. The various conflicts that determined the first book's events are magnified here, the societies established in book one on the verge of splitting open. Where Ship of Magic was a meandering journey through increasingly interesting places, Mad Ships is a disparate but still cohesive sprint through ever more affecting heights of tension.

Hand in hand, with the growth of the stakes is the presence of magic in the narrative. Ship of Magic showed us a relatively standard world, with only the slightest hints of the otherworldly to give it flavor and direction. Here, by contrast, events are often decided by the ever growing presence of those otherworldly elements.

Everything still works, however, because those elements are still fundamentally a part of the narrative. Rather than supersede the various character stories that Hobb has built up to this point, the supernatural plays into them, exaggerating strengths and weaknesses while still sticking to the ground rules that have been established up to this point even if Hobb is busy shattering our perceptions while she does it.

Furthermore, the magic is just damn cool. None of it is particularly original, but we've been made to care about the world to such an extent at this point that that doesn't matter. The reveals given here are both jaw dropping and horrifying, and the atmosphere that Hobb manages to evoke is haunting and beautiful in all the right places.

The plot of The Liveship Traders is almost like trying to make something out of a disorganized ball of string while seeming to do nothing at all. Patterns slowly began to emerge in Ship of Magic, but things are more than leisurely as the individual pieces seem more inclined to move under their own volition and to their own ends than to any master plan. Mad Ship is nothing short of frantic when compared with its predecessor, but the events still feel just as character driven as they did before.

With Ship of Destiny, though, you can clearly see Hobb's fingers in the frame as they manipulate the strands into the shape she needs them to be in, regardless of where they just seemed poised to go. The once organic plot now becomes contrived, characters picked up off of their natural courses and plopped down somewhere convenient with no regard to their wants or desires. By the time the third or fourth piece is about to be rammed into place for the climax, it becomes hard to even feel that Hobb tried to disguise the fact that she, quite literally, dropped him out of the sky.

A prime example of the simplification of everything that came before is the Bingtown situation. Where the first two books featured an increasingly fractured community, one where no easy solution was present, Ship of Destiny features a cartoonish and generic villain take power by being a puppy-eating demon, his every threat counteracted by his oh-so-obviously-eminent downfall.

Worse still is the use of magic. No longer are the dragons and serpents, the seething cities and sentient ships, a part of the plot, an influence on the characters. Instead, the supernatural steps up and takes control of the whole journey, tossing the motivations and actions of the characters we just read about casually aside as they assert their own dominance and narrative directions. Partway through the book, a certain magical character instructs the characters:

"'I have a task for you, [name]. It is of utmost importance. You and your fellows must set aside all else to attend to it, and until it is completed, you must think of nothing else. [...] The task you must perform is vastly more important than one human's mating. I honor you with an undertaking that may well save the whole of my race.'" (p. 355-356)

A supernatural creature insisting its own tasks are far more important than that of us lesser humans? Fascinating. The humans actually going along with this and just about abandoning all of what made them interesting characters and the book a gripping read? Less fascinating.

The Liveship Traders is one of the absolute best works of character in fantasy or any other medium. Events are built to a fever pitch over several excellently paced and plotted books, the experience something like what might result from taking Fitz's treatment in FarseerLINK and expanding it to everyone in sight. Then, in the final volume, the whole thing falls apart, resolving the events and conflicts that were built up without ever resolving the characters internal and external crisis, explaining how everything fits together without bothering to mention why the pieces should be put together that way or how they feel about their new positions. It's not enough to ruin what comes before, but it is enough to deny The Liveship Traders the position in the fantasy hierarchy that it deserves.

In this second installment of Hobb's "Liveship Traders" Trilogy we are returned to the Cursed Shores and learn even more about these mysterious Liveships. Althea and Brashen team up to form a dangerous plot to retrieve the Vestrit family Liveship that has been captured by the vicious pirate Captain Kennit. While they hatch their plans Wintrow, who has also been captured along with the Liveship is slowly slipping under the influence of the vivacious pirate as he too hatches his own scemes.

And while everyone else schemes and dreams, the ever-present serpents struggle to complete their destiny and understand their reason for being...

I picked up "Mad Ship" almost immediately after finishing the prequel "Ship of Magic." I ended up having mixed feelings about "Mad Ship." While the feelings edge towards the positive, there is still a feeling of oddness to it I just can't seem to shake when I think back on "Mad Ship" as a whole.

On the positive side, Hobb of course did not disappoint. "Mad Ship" was full of what "Ship of Magic" gave me a taste of and kept my appetite perked for more. The characters were well-rounded and really came into their own more in this book than in "Ship of Magic." Schemes and plots came to light and others were dashed completely.

I also commend Hobb for keeping her second book true to the original story she started with in "Ship of Magic." She did not pull a George Martin and introduce so many characters my head started to spin. The characters she did introduce were minimal and added to the story as opposed to hindering the plotline.

On the flipside there was a slight bit of cheese. Nothing a good Chardonnay couldn't compliment, but it was still there nonetheless. Towards the end of "Mad Ship" we begin to understand more about what a Liveship actually is and we understand why there are entire chapters dedicated to "the serpents" that in "Ship of Magic" at least, were seemingly insignificant to the plot.

Without giving anything away I found the reasons Hobb gave for the serpents being to be a little far-fetched. Yes I know it's fantasy and anything can happen, and yes, I know: I couldn't believe I found myself griping over mythical characters either but...I don't know I found her explanations to be a little corny.

Now, I will gladly eat my words if once I read the third book "Ship of Destiny" her reasons turn out to be justified. I love nothing more than when I have to eat my words.

I think I need to classify "Mad Ship" in the same category as "The Empire Strikes Back." Not my favorite, but necessary to the storyline.

The Vestrit family verges upon bankruptcy, and the Vivacia, the Vestrit family Liveship, is long overdue to return from trading. Their vast debts to the Rain Wild Traders are owed "in blood or gold." Unbeknownst to them, the Vivacia has been captured by Kennit the pirate, along Wintrow and Kyle Haven. But the Vestrits are not the only Trader family in trouble. All the Old Traders are feeling the pinch from the Satrap of Jamaillia's increasing taxes and the New Traders slave-made fortunes. People begin to openly discuss rebellion from Jamaillia. Althea returns home expecting to take over her ship, only to find it missing in action. When her old shipmate and former lover, Brashen Trell, also returns and confirms that pirates have captured the ship, the family initiates a mission to rescue Vivacia and their family members. Young but headstrong Malta Vestrit fears the possibility that she may be forced to marry a Rain Wilder to pay the family debt, while also secretly yearns for the adventure and the mystery of the Rain Wilds.

Kennit works his charms on Vivacia, attempting to win her over to the freedom and excitement of the pirate life.

The sea serpents gather and find a new way to restore their lost memories - namely eating Liveships. However, these memories are insufficient to allow them to complete their transformation alone. Even as they despair, She Who Remembers, freed by Wintrow at the cost of his life, is seeking them.

The Liveship Trader's Trilogy takes place in Jamaillia, Bingtown and the Pirate Isles, on the coast far to the south of the Six Duchies. The war in the north has interrupted the trade that is the lifeblood of Bingtown, and the Liveship Traders have fallen on hard times despite their magic sentient ships. At one time, possession of a Liveship, constructed of magical wizard wood, guaranteed a Trader's family prosperity. Only a Liveship can brave the dangers of the Rain Wild River and trade with the legendary Rain Wild Traders and their mysterious magical goods, plundered from the enigmatic Elderling ruins. Althea Vestrit expects her families to adhere to tradition, and pass the family Liveship on to her when it quickens at the death of her father. Instead, the Vivacia goes to her sister Keffria and her scheming Chalcedan husband Kyle. The proud Liveship becomes a transport vessel for the despised but highly profitable slave trade.

Althea, cast out on her own, resolves to make her own way in the world and somehow regain control of her family's living ship. Her old shipmate Brashen Trell, the enigmatic woodcarver Amber and the Paragon, the notorious mad Liveship are the only allies she can rally to her cause. Pirates, a slave rebellion, migrating sea serpents and a newly hatched dragon are but a few of the obstacles she must face on her way to discovering that Liveships are not, perhaps, what they seem to be, and may have dreams of their own to follow.

"The Liveship Traders: Mad Ship" continues "The Liveship Traders Trilogy" as Wintrow adapts to a new life aboard his ship controlled by the pirate Kennit. The author masterfully blends numerous plotlines of continuous adventure into an extraordinary middle novel tying traditional family issues and values with survival inside a changing society during a political upheaval.

In a host of characters predominately female, Kennit reigns supreme by his engaging personality and arrogant attitude even when he reveals a fair amount of his mysterious and painful past. One of the best lines is when he commands a particular person to do something, the person boldly informs Kennit he cannot make him do anything, he is not a slave, to which Kennit replies, "I can make you dead."

The abundant cast, which includes many newer individuals, is nearly overwhelming. From Amber befriending the liveship Paragon to Brashen Trell and Althea Vestrit enduring separation, the characters themselves are the strongest point in the multi-layered tale. A few people mature like the glowing Wintrow Haven, and even his conniving and deceitful sister Malta begins to show positive changes in her behavior.

The challenging life of a Rain Wild Trader on a volatile land addresses the recurring Elderkind and magic quickened inanimate objects into living creatures theme from "The Farseer Trilogy". Near the end of the story, there is enlightenment about the unusual "tangle" segment and could have a great impact on the relationship between the Rain Wilder Traders and Old Traders.

There are disturbing events similar to the prior novel, which may be questionable for young readers. A more detailed map of the significant terrains including a legend plus a comprehensive appendix would have been useful.

I highly recommend this series to any fan of the fantasy genre.

Thank you.

Somehow "The Liveship Traders" just got better. Robin Hobb, the author of the "Farseer" trilogy and "Ship of Magic", has written a book that builds upon the story began in "Ship of Magic" and expands it far enough that already I have to consider "The Liveship Traders" be superior to the excellent "Farseer" trilogy. How did she do this? Robin Hobb simply turned the entire world of the Traders and Bingtown on its head.

When we last left our characters at the end of "Ship of Magic" we saw Kyle Havan, his son Wintrow, and the Liveship Vivacia taken captive by the pirate Captain Kennit. Kennit had been striving to capture a Liveship so that he could rid the waters of slave traders (Havan, on his first voyage on Vivacia after his father in law Trader Vestrit died, is trading in slaves). A Liveship is a sentient ship and one that is bound to her owners family, but if tamed would be the best ship on the water. Althea, the daughter of Trader Vestrit, is sailing back to Bingtown on another Liveship after having quite a hard time proving that she could be a sailor. She had expected to inherit Vivacia from her father and her brother in law, Kyle Havan, told her that the only way she would ever get the ship was to prove herself a sailor. Brashen Trell, the former first mate of the Vivacia and disinherited son of a Trader family, is sailing on a pirate ship himself as it is the only berth he could get. The Vestrit family is low on fortune and struggling to make the payments for the Vivacia and is counting on the money Kyle would bring back from the slave trade. Except that he hasn't returned yet.

This previous paragraph helps to bring the storyline up to the beginning of "Mad Ships", although it is a much abbreviated version of what happened in "Ship of Destiny" and robs the story of all of its craft and does not do justice to it. "Mad Ship" takes everything further and in a whole new direction. Brashen Trell returns to Bingtown with news that the Vivacia is captured. Althea also returns and learns of this and helps her family, with the assistance of Brashen and a mysterious woman named Amber to rescue the Vivacia. This is one third of the story. The next third of the story revolves around the Vestrit family, in particular the youngest daughter Malta. Malta is being courted by a young man named Reyn from the Rain Wilds Trader family who holds the lease of the Vivacia. Malta starts the novel wanting nothing more than to live a lavish lifestyle and to be introduced into society and feels held back by her family's impending poverty. But as the novel progresses Malta begins to learn what it is to rely on her family and her responsibility. She still has flights of fancy, but not to the extent as before and she becomes much more responsible. The final third of "Mad Ship" deals with Captain Kennit and Wintrow. Wintrow is the eldest (living) son of Kyle Havan and Keffira Vestrit and was studying to be a priest of Sa. But when Kyle's heir died he was called back unwilling to resume his place in the family and by the time of this novel Kyle took his own son a slave, branded his face, and was disgusted by Wintrow. But Wintrow is the only one with Vestrit blood aboard the Vivacia and this bond is vitally important...except that Wintrow's rejection of this life has caused the Vivacia to be able to be wooed by Captain Kennit into piracy. It is interesting that the character of Captain Kennit initially appeared to be one of the villains of the story is coming out a hero in "Mad Ship". Whether or not this holds is another question, but he is feeling like an anti-hero as he wants to improve the lives of those in the Pirate Isles and end slavery...but he is a pirate himself with all that entails.

To reveal too much of where "Mad Ship" takes the story would lessen the joy in discovering it. The pace of the story still moves at a gradual but insistent pace, but the story is rich in detail and Hobb builds this world with great skill. Even though it is part of the same world of the "Farseer" trilogy, "The Liveship Traders" takes place in a completely different part of the world and while the Six Duchies are referred to as is the Red Ships War it is only a reference to set this story on a chronology. Suffice it to say that what Robin Hobb reveals about the nature of Liveships and also about the serpents which keep getting a prologue and a few "interlude" chapters changes everything about how I view the story. Not to mention that Hobb has completely altered the lives of Bingtown and the characters irrevocably.

Midway through this novel I was very much wrapped up in the story Robin Hobb was telling and by the end I was in turn impressed, wanting to cheer (Althea), and shocked by the revelations. I knew Hobb was a good writer and have enjoyed the four previous books of hers I have read, but "Mad Ship" is a cut above those. I am truly excited to finish of the trilogy with "Ship of Magic" and as I said in the first paragraph I believe this series to be better than her excellent "Farseer" trilogy.

-Joe Sherry

This may well be the best ongoing work of fantasy being written. A strong statement, perhaps, but one I believe is easily supported by the literate quality of writing, the depth of both the characterization and world she has created, the complexity of her plot development, and the originality of both her world and the elements of fantasy and and the magic underpinning it. In terms of the latter, it is refreshingly difficult to perceive any borrowings stemming from her predecessors, and her treatment of dragons is so far the only example I have discovered that is not either childish, overly drawn from earlier and worn stereotypes, or lacking credible treatment. In terms of the former, Robin Hobb is one of only a few fantasy authors who can truly write well. This is a series that should grace the shelves of any serious reader of fantasy, and rises far above the simple, run of the mill fare we so often encounter, with their characters and magical elements rarely ascending above the conventional or the borrowed.
I noted that an earlier reviewer found this installment weaker than first; however I feel this to be the strongest volume of the series (I have obtained and read the concluding novel). In terms of the interweaving of the multiple plot lines, "Mad Ship" closes much that was left unresolved in "Ship of Magic," and propels the plot along at a much brisker pace, successfully setting up anticipation for the final resolution to come in "Ship of Destiny." It seems to me more tightly written, both in terms of character development and story line. Some appear to have found the plot overly complex, yet I would counter that the complexity and multiple plotlines are one of the books strengths, and that the absence of simplistic and largely linear storylines, as can be found in works by more conventional authors such as Eddings, Brooks, MacCaffrey, or Feist, creates a narrative that offers the reader far greater dimension and interest than a work that plods along the path of a single character. This, I suppose, is a matter of taste, but for me the more character perspectives the better, as long as they are individually and fully developed, which certainly is the case here. This offers the reader a narrative of greater depth and richness. Hobb's storyline here, with its multi-dimensional threads of plot, never strays, evolving over time into a cohesive yet multifaceted entity as wonderfully rendered as 'Maulkin's Tangle.'
I was somewhat baffled by an earlier criticism regarding a lack of characterization: One of Hobb's undeniable strengths are her characterizations; few other authors are so thorough in creating unique and individual characters whose responses are neither black nor white. And it is hard to find more credible female characters. Finally, in response to another reader, while I am one who continues to read Jordan with enjoyment, I believe the Hobb is shown here to be the better writer, at least in terms of the maturity of her characterizations and the originality of her world, and certainly his equal when it comes to descriptive narrative. While Hobb may not offer the epic scope of Jordan's vision, it waits to be seen whether the greater strength lies with her more tightly envisioned approach to storytelling.

"The Mad Ship" is as finely crafted a book 2 to its predecessor ("Ship of Magic") as one could hope for. All the plot threads in the first book are continued here with both an eye for detail as well as foresight towards the author's vision. If some of the serpentine plot ideas in Book 1 confused you, almost all your questions will be answered in "The Mad Ship" - but read carefully. I realised on my second round of this book that I actually "missed" a few key sentences which explain a lot. In fact, Robin Hobb excels at this - tiny details in the book can shed light on giant plot arcs in the entire story thus far. What could possibly be the relationship between the sea serpents, the wizardwood, the liveships, the wisps of memories, and the Rain Wild magic? The wonder is that Robin Hobb has created such an original story to tie up all these, without a hint of cliche.
Hobb's characterization continues to impress. Rarely does one encounter characters so real and so sympathizable. At risk of garnering "unhelpful votes" from the store readers, I would like to point out that Hobb strongly favors her female characters - with almost no exception, all of her female characters (even the big reptilian one) demonstrate intelligence, fortitude, maturity and above all, strong will. Seeing how they grow and develop, how they deal with life, is an education in itself. On the other hand, the male characters tend to be two-dimensional, straightforward, coarse, even crass; even where they are good, they tend to be naive. There are a few sentences which clearly show what the female thinks of the "only knows how to feed and breed" male.
I write the above as a statement, not as a criticism against the book. The fact remains that Hobb's characterization is first-class, and totally believable despite this "favoritism". In fact, what is most impressive is how Hobb turns an apparently "bad" character into a "good" one, an art only the best writers can achieve naturally.

This is the middle novel of the "Liveship Traders" trilogy ("Ship Of Magic"), a fantasy saga of seagoing trading families bonded to sentient liveships made of rare wizardwood.

The Vestritt liveship, Vivacia, which had been taken from Althea Vestritt by her brother-in-law and turned to slave dealing, has been seized by the ambitious, slavery hating pirate Kennitt, further destroying the deteriorating finances of the Vestritt family.

Althea, with the help of the disinherited but dashing Brashen and the self-possessed outsider Amber, decides to go after Vivacia in the mad liveship Paragon, which has destroyed his previous crews and been beached for years.

The story moves from the traders' homeland of Bingtown, a place of Victorian propriety, to the disturbing magical land of the Rain Wilders where wizardwood is found, to the opulent corruption of the Satrap whose feckless greed is destroying his realm, to the seagoing adventures of Vivacia, her reluctant young Vestritt sailor Wintrow and her ruthless new captain Kennitt and, not least, to the undersea world of the great serpents who are mysteriously losing their minds and memories.

Basically a swashbuckling romantic sea story with magical properties and ethical strife, Hobb's story is only slightly marred by overwritten human quarreling. The grand adventure entertains but interested readers will have to look for the third installment, "Ship of Destiny," to see how it all comes out.

I liked this one less than book one - the writing is still there, but the story is missing - there is movement for characters and they 'do' stuff and they 'go' places, but they do not grow and they do not evolve, and there is most definitely NOT an ending here either - this is poorly labeled as a trilogy when it is really one long epic novel broken into three books, and it is not that great overall - 10 plot lines, and I Lem about half of them because I am bored with the lack of progress and the constant need to talk about everything without doing anything - this is such a huge disappointment from a very good author

Unmistakably Robin Hobb at her best, this book has nevertheless engendered a few unfavorably comparisons with her first trilogy, the Farseer Saga. However, I believe that the different feel and atmosphere of The Liveship Traders has caused some of those reviews.
Truly, this is a far more coherent work than the Farseer Saga. Not as subtle, perhaps as a result, as I, and no doubt many other readers, have been able to predict the course of events before their occurrence. But then, that is the nature of this Trilogy, is it not? The Farseer Saga was meant to be a more mysterious, medieval world of barbaric feudalism, dark intrigue, and sinister magic. The world of The Liveship Traders, on the other hand, is far more exotic, where the fantastic does not seem as threatening, where the people are more civilized (decadent?), and the world a brighter place. The tone of Hobb's work fully reflects the atmosphere, and rightly so. This is not so much a story of intrigue as one of high adventure. There is, however, no less of a focus on character, on the individual. But this time, Hobb does not focus so much on one individual (as she did in Farseer), but chooses to tell the story from a third-person perspective. This, too, complements the nature of the work. The dark mystery of the Farseer was effectively communicated from the point-of-view of Fitz, while the breadth of The Liveship Traders could not be so contained in one person's perspective. And while little seems to happen in this second book, and the readers feel cast adrift on an endless sea, Hobb nevertheless reveals much about her world, rather than saving all revelations for her last book.
There are significant ties to her first trilogy, some very apparent; others, not so. But what remained somewhat vague and unclear in the Farseer is illuminated in Liveship. As a side note, of all the characters mentioned, I feel that Amber has been neglected by readers. She is the most understated link to Farseer. And the obvious hints to her identity reveal that Hobb has no intention of keeping us in the dark ages with this trilogy.
A brilliant read, after the appetizing Ship of Magic. Mad Ship provides a well-planned seven-course meal that primes our palate for dessert. I cannot wait for Ship of Destiny!

This is the fifth Robin Hobb novel I've read (and as yet haven't read any of material as Megan Lindholm) and enjoyed the book immensely. Why then only 4 stars? My true score for the book is 4 and a half. (We need to Make the store allow for half star ratings!!!) Length! Having recently read this 800+ page fantasy and recently a 1000 page fantasy, I am starting to feel novels should hit an approx 600 page max. Obviously this is a very personal bias. Thus the three 800+ page books of the series could have been 4 600 page books, and though it felt long (to me), there wasn't any part that I'd edit out.
There a few slowing intertwining plotlines. What was very satisfying was having the story line develope one plotline, then shift to the other plotline. Your thinking, NO, I want ot read more about this part of the adventure with these characters; but while reading the other storyline the very same attachment happens, and suddenly you aren't willing to go back to the first story thread you didn't want to leave, because this other part of the story has been just as good, just as involved, and... you end up not really wanting to put the book down.
More Hobb? I am getting myself a copy of the third book of this trilogy (the local bookstores were sold out) and I am becoming eager to read the third trilogy in the same world as that takes us readers back to the assassin's apprentice of the first trilogy.
Very recommended!

Once again Ms Hobb continues to please. Like many of the other reviewers, I feel that the Liveship series lacks the poignancy and impact of the Farseer series. But let's face it - that's one hard act to follow! Each instalment of the Farseer series left me emotionally drained for days! You should compare apples with apples, eh? This series is different - it's written in the third person which never draws you in like the first person does. Its scope is far larger with several plots and sub-plots wending their way to what I am sure will be a memorable and satisfying resolution. But a central theme remains consistant with the author's earlier works: that of the animation of inanimate things by the absorption of a human personality (is that animism of some type?). This series answers some of the questions arising from the first series and continues the theme with the creation of "live ships" hewn from a special "wood". I found the "quickening" process somewhat disturbing and the tales of Paragon's genesis quite distressing. (My instincts were right! The whole liveship thing is an abomination.) The author keeps the story and character development jumping along at a good pace. (Her characterisations are nearly the best in the business. J.V. Jones could take a leaf or two eh?)I look forward eagerly to book 3 and I congratulate the author on her outstanding achievements. The best fantasy (apart from George R. R. Martin) I have read for many years.

I first learned about Robin Hobb's world in the Farseer Trilogy. I couldn't wait to start the Liveship Traders series. Ship of Magic expanded on the world of the Six Duchies and introduced: strange serpents on a search for their past, live ships 'quickened' from the lives of their owners, the mysterious Rain Wild Traders, and enough characters and substories to keep the reader challenged and interested.
Mad Ship continues the story, giving several characters the chance to grow through adversity. At sea, Captain Kennit takes on an air of 'Robin Hood', with enough ruthlessness to remain true to his nature; Captain Haven gets his just desserts; and Wintrow's epiphany allows him to grasp his true mission as a priest of Sa. In Bingtown, the negative influence of Jamilla and Chalced accelerates; the Traders community challenges foreign rule; and Malta evolves from 'princess' to heroine. Will her efforts bridge the new world with the world of the Elderlings?
Let the kids have their Harry Potter, Robin Hobb's Liveship Traders joins Anne McCaffrey's Dragonriders on my bookshelf.

This is the second book in The Liveship Taders trilogy (after Ship of Magic and before Ship of Destiny).
After being banned from the deck of the slaughter ship the Reaper because she's a woman, without her well-deserved ship ticket, and after breaking up with her companion Brashen Trell, Althea Vestrit is hired as mate on board a Bingtown-bound Liveship, the Ophelia. And when the ship betrays her secret to Captain Tenira, Althea fears she'll be given the sack again. Luckily it doesn't happen and soon the crew and ship rally to her cause, promising they'll help her gain her rightful heirloom, the Liveship Vivacia, back.
But not so far on the seas, the Vivacia has just been boarded by Kennit's gang of pirates and her crew taken prisoners, thanks in part to the rebellion of the slaves that made up her cargo. In exchange for his life and that of his father, Wintrow will have to heal Kennit gangrenous leg stump. The situation seems desperate.
And all the while in Bingtwon 12-year-old Malta, Wintrow's sister and Althea's niece, is waiting for her father to return with his precious cargo that is supposed to help her family pay off their debts to the Khuprus of the Rain Wilds, her suitor Reyn's family. But since she's opened Reyn's courting Dreambox, she's been having troubling dreams about a dragon pleading for her help.
Parallelly, Amber the beadmaker is making scandalous plans to buy the Paragon, a abandoned Liveship who is believed mad, and his majesty the Satrap Cosgo of Jamaillia and his court are on their way to Bingtown.
Once again Robin Hobb has wrought a wonderful epic tale of ships and serpents, love, magic and intrigue. The more pages you turn, the more you realise her world is a truly enchanting and mysterious one, where characters never stop growing in depth, especially young and capricious Malta who matures a lot in the course of this book. Robin Hobb writes so terrifically well, her stories flow so naturally that you wish they'd never end.

'The Mad Ship' is every bit the sequel that the explosive climax of the previous novel demanded it should be. As ever, Hobb approaches her world with originality and verve, vivid settings and distinctive action perfectly offset by incredibly well-drawn characters with real emotions, dreams and foibles. But this is also a progression in style for her, for in this novel Hobb traces the evolution of a character from childish selfish entrapment in the social graces of a traditionalistic nepotistic society to adult selfless romantic, prepared to sacrifice and endure hardships for love of family and friends. It is a transition unlike any other that I have read, and is carried off with such insight and seamless integrity that Hobb can only be described as a literary talent in a genre that is sorely lacking in such.
The multi-plot story swings and bounds in each of its strands. The newly captured Vivacia's enchantment with Kennit and his Pirate Isles dream, Wintrow's reluctant induction into the pirate world, Althea's return to Bingtown, Brashen's friendship with Paragon, and Keffria's usage of the Vestrit family vote in the increasingly anti-Satrapy Trader Council are all interesting and involving, but what may come as a surprise is that the real star of this book is Malta. She begins the novel as little more than a spoiled brat, believing wholeheartedly that her father's return will set everything straight; he will punish Ronica for being so constricting and ensure that they all live in the lap of luxury and wealth. As with her other novels, Hobb is able to make us feel real heart-felt anger at this selfish individual, but as the novel progresses, and as Malta's relationship with mysterious Rain Wilder Reyn intensifies, she subtly alters Malta's self-centred viewpoint to one that encompasses the world around her, and with this change, our reaction to the character changes. Indeed, by the end Malta is holding our attention and providing us with more emotional stimulus than any other character, and considering that in the first novel her role was perfunctory at best, that's quite an achievement. Althea, the 'star' if you will of the first novel, takes a back seat in this one, whilst Ronica and Keffria become more pronounced. It only fell down from five stars because about two-thirds of the way through, the story meanders a little; this is redeemed, however, by a climax in the Elderling ruins beneath Trehaug that is even more tense than Vivacia's storm-tossed capture at the end of 'Ship of Magic.' (These exciting scenes use a 'time-slip' process reminiscent of FitzChivalry's Skill-induced visions of the Elderlings in 'Assassin's Quest', so a knowing wink to people who have read the Farseer Trilogy.)
All in all, 'The Mad Ship' is a fantastic novel, exciting and action-packed cutting-edge fantasy writing whilst still intellectual, literary, emotional and political. Hobb writes with a style that is agonisingly good, gripping and moving and always entrenched firmly in a realism that sets it aside from its peers. There is as much English nineteenth-century social novel in this book as there is dragon/serpent fantasy, and as such I would recommend this to anyone, regardless of whether they are into the genre or not. And for those who are into the genre, this is a real treat.

I continue to be impressed with Robin Hobb's stories. They mature in such a way as to both keep the reader wondering and progress the plot line and charater developments. Hobb's writing style is highly entertaining and combined with her fantastic imagination makes for books that are really hard to put down.

In Mad Ship, the plot is expanded nicely and, although there are quite a few separate but converging story lines, progresses quickly. Some of the main characters from the first book change in unexpected ways, with Malta becoming more mature (or maybe she is faking it?) and much more likable and Wintrow accepting his fate as the will of Sa. Also, with greater roles being played by some of the most intriguing characters, including Amber and the Satrap (along with his very different Companions), there is a lot of jumping around from character the character. Nevertheless, the overall story progresses immensely and almost teasingly seems about to climax throughout the book. All of the separate stories are being drawn together for what promises to be a remarkable finish in the third book of the trilogy.

I read ~The Liveship Traders trilogy MANY years ago; so many that I am unable to write the type of detailed review this series, and its author, rightly deserves. However, I did want to take this opportunity to write how much I remember enjoying this trilogy. I remember being so taken by it that I actually wrote a fan letter to Robin Hobb. It was my first fan letter EVER!

I still consider Robin Hobb to be one of my favorite writers. I've read almost all of her books, and the couple that I haven't are queued-up in my Wish List right now.

I highly recommend any book written by Robin Hobb, but especially those of The Liveship Traders trilogy. I hope you give the series a chance, and that you find yourself transported into her fantastic, new world with it's oh-so compelling characters.

~ Ship of Magic (The Liveship Traders, Book 1)
~ Mad Ship (The Liveship Traders, Book 2)
~ Ship of Destiny (The Liveship Traders, Book 3)

Enjoy!

Well written as usual for Robin Hobb. I went from frustration, to sadness to happiness throughout the last quarter of the book. I couldn't put it down. Read it whenever I could, and listened to it on audio book when I couldn't sit still and read. The characters are well developed and go through such a metamorphosis due to their trials and circumstances that it makes you feel as though you have grown with them. I just really loved the book and won't hesistate to recommend it and the first book to anyone who loves this genre.

Robin Hobb, Mad Ship (Bantam, 1999)

Hobb continues on with the second book in the Liveship Traders series, picking up where she left off with Ship of Magic. Mad Ship continues the development of the characters found in Ship of Magic, bringing some of the book's minor characters to the forefront. While this, like the previous book, is an ensemble piece, the book focuses on the liveship Paragon, beached and abandoned by his family for the past thirty years. Of course, "focuses" is something of a stretch in a piece of this magnitude; there is much to be kept track of with Kennit, Wintrow, Althea, Brashen, Malta and her competing suitors, and the rest of the storylines. That Hobb can keep it all up in the air without dropping anything is quite a feat.

If there is a weak spot in the novel, it's in the development of Malta Vestrit. Her character's development may be shown as plainly as that of any other character in the novel (for all of them develop and change over time), but for some reason I can't quite put my finger on, Malta's changes ring false at times, as if they're too facile. Still, that's a very small number of pages in such a tome, and it definitely shouldn't put you off reading this.

Hobb is rapidly developing into one of today's finer fantasy authors. Definitely one to look out for. *** ½

If you liked the Farseer trilogy, you will probably like what Hobb is doing with the Liveship traders. The continuing unveiling of how the world works and how the events tie into the political context she has created are exciting, and pleasantly surprising. The explosion of character viewpoints, however, can be vertigo inducing. At some point, there needs to be a focus on a protagonist or a cause: one might guess that the whole point of her book is a condemnation of the exploitation of natural resources, to add to her diatribe against slavery begun in the first book. On the bright side, Kennit continues to please, the workings of Elderlings and dragons, begun in Farseer, are developed further. Hobb gives un a superb version of just what dragons, a common author's vehicle in fairy tales and fantasy novels, are. For the author: Please get Ship of Destiny to your fans, but don't rush it. I'd rather you scrubbed it and sewed up loose ends, than hurry it out just to make sure we finally get our conclusion. All good things come to those who wait. I'll fidget a bit, but will patiently wait for the next book about the Liveship Traders.

Hobb's maelstrom is still churning as the second book of her trilogy opens, and the tides are turning all over her world. The liveship Vivacia is finding piracy all too suitable, horrifying her soulmate Wintrow with her violence. Kennit's evil mind squishes its way to power, and with each manured step he takes flowers grow despite his intentions. Althea finds society's chains weighing heavily upon her in a world where women are seldom liberated, while her lover Brashen finds responsibility crushing on his own shoulders. A desperate plan to save Vivacia by enlisting poor Paragon the mad ship may be the worst thing they could have done, and as Bingtown explodes into fire and madness the Vestrits find themselves fleeing to their mysterious kinsmen of the eerie Rain Wilds. Poisonous Malta Vestrit finds all her childish mischief coming back to her more-adult self, and masked Reyn Khuprus shines through all his concealment as a true and generous soul. As the masks begin to fall, Reyn and Wintrow sacrifice nearly everything to release old knowledge and power. Their world is disintegrating and the skull of compulsion and slavery begins to grin ever more widely through the rotting face of Jamaillian civilization. For the sea-serpents have remembered their ancient names and aspects, and they are coming with more determination than before ... coming for the liveships.

The characters are superb - all of them feel very real to me. There are no perfect heroes, every character has certain strenghts and certain flaws. I also enjoyed that most of the characters are developing during the course of the story. (The way Malta changes from a spoiled brat into something more is plausible. Kennit stays as ambigious as ever, but still seems to develop a soft spot for Wintrow.) The plot is magnificent! The reader is given a huge amount of information - trying to put all the details together is like trying to solve a puzzle - real fun!! And I think it's great that there is a close connection to the "Farseer Trilogy" - just who is Amber, anyway?! What bothers is me is that none of my friends has yet read Robin Hobb's books, because the German translation is bloody awful - and none of them feels up to reading the English version. And now I'm looking forward for "Ship of Destiny".

Some interesting twists happen, and I like how the paths of the characters are all starting to come together. I'm particularly interested in Malta's character (that girl you love to hate) as she starts to realize more what she wants and expects from herself, and Althea, out on a journey no one seems to think she can make and desperately trying to stand her ground. Kennit is equally awesome on his own quest of righteous glory! Wintrow is meh - I never really liked him much.

And of course all the other characters in between have been really great! Some are so wonderful and others are just destined to suck forever, but in overall I've really enjoyed the diversity.

After a rather slow beginning to this trilogy, book 2 (Mad Ship) finally begins to pick up some speed. The characters become more developed and appear to have more depth; some begin to become relevant characters. I like this book better than the first (but not as much as book 3).

This is the part where you experience twists in the plot, high adventure and great build-up that one simply can't stop! At the end of this book, I was yearning so badly for the grand finale in book three that I couldn't stop thinking of it.
The build-up was superb as you learn more about the relationship between the characters, the rise and fall of Kennit, the political play between teh Satrap and Bingtown, and most of all, the mysteries surrounding the Rain Wild forest and Paragon.
What is his relationship with Kennit? How did the two crews he carried die at sea, making him insane as he is? Is he truly insane? And about Vivacia and Wintrow... what is happening to her relationship with him, while Kennit seduces her with his temptations....
Mad Ship sets a faster pace for the series leading to a climatic finale to be found in the third and final book of the series. A great continuation and highly recommended!!

This second book in Robin Hobb's `Liveship Traders' series sees Althea aboard the Liveship Ophelia and trying to regain her own beloved Liveship, Vivacia. The `pirate king' Kennet is now in possession of Vivacia and has no intention of giving her up. Worse still, Vivacia seems happy with the situation and is doing nothing to help Althea regain her.
Amber, the mysterious artisan who befriended Althea in book one, is trying to heal Paragon, a Liveship who supposedly went insane and killed his owners. Paragon has been beached and blinded and is now totally mad; no-one dares go near him except for Amber. Another story thread sees Althea's spoiled and wayward sister Malta become increasingly involved with the mysterious Rain river wilds traders. A relationship seems to be developing between her and one of the masked young men of the trading people.
Robin Hobb has managed to maintain the standard she has set with her previous novels, if not surpass them. She must surely rate as one of the best fantasy writers around...highly recommended.

This is the part where you experience twists in the plot, high adventure and great build-up that one simply can't stop! At the end of this book, I was yearning so badly for the grand finale in book three that I couldn't stop thinking of it.
The build-up was superb as you learn more about the relationship between the characters, the rise and fall of Kennit, the political play between teh Satrap and Bingtown, and most of all, the mysteries surrounding the Rain Wild forest and Paragon.
What is his relationship with Kennit? How did the two crews he carried die at sea, making him insane as he is? Is he truly insane? And about Vivacia and Wintrow... what is happening to her relationship with him, while Kennit seduces her with his temptations....
Mad Ship sets a faster pace for the series leading to a climatic finale to be found in the third and final book of the series. A great continuation and highly recommended!!

This second book in Robin Hobb's `Liveship Traders' series sees Althea aboard the Liveship Ophelia and trying to regain her own beloved Liveship, Vivacia. The `pirate king' Kennet is now in possession of Vivacia and has no intention of giving her up. Worse still, Vivacia seems happy with the situation and is doing nothing to help Althea regain her.
Amber, the mysterious artisan who befriended Althea in book one, is trying to heal Paragon, a Liveship who supposedly went insane and killed his owners. Paragon has been beached and blinded and is now totally mad; no-one dares go near him except for Amber. Another story thread sees Althea's spoiled and wayward sister Malta become increasingly involved with the mysterious Rain river wilds traders. A relationship seems to be developing between her and one of the masked young men of the trading people.
Robin Hobb has managed to maintain the standard she has set with her previous novels, if not surpass them. She must surely rate as one of the best fantasy writers around...highly recommended.

Hobb has a number of qualities that I apreciate, chief among them that she is not afraid to kill or hurt main caracters (something that adds an element of suspence never attainabull in for exempel the work of Eddings where main caracters are immortal). However previosly I have never considerd her more the good (three out of five).
The stoy that begun in "Ship of magic" unfolds and actually gains momentum. Unlike most second books that usually become nothing but setup for the third Hobb lets the plot unfold and brings it forward. This is not to say that she does not leave you with a cliffhanger but that the book contains a lot more then an ending meant to make you buy the next book (books).
Those who have read "The Farseer" books will recognize most of the caracters and many elements of the plot, but there are enough differences to make it acceptebull.
All in all this is an very good book, purhaps not good enough to buy in hardcover but good enough to borrow from somebody who buys hardcover and then buy in paperback.

So... having read the first book in the trilogy, I happily picked up the second book and began my journey... and what an unexpected journey it was. Somehow the first action packed book turned into a slog of a romance novel. While there was still character development and movement of plot, to me it was way too slow. There is way too much space devoted in this book to the coming of age love interests of Malta. Perhaps this is personal preference, but I haven't ever read a Fantasy novel with so many pages devoted to the love life of its characters and it is not really what I read this genre for.

However, having said that, the story does move on here. Hobb moves the plot along - even though ploddingly at times - on to its conclusion. The beginning and end thirds of the book are good and highlight Hobb's ability to tell a compelling character driven story. The middle third is lost on me and was difficult to get through.

Pros;
o another compelling, character driven story
o interesting spin on the Fantasy genre
o keeps the reader guessing - has good plot twists and surprises

Cons;
o slow in the middle third
o becomes too close to a romance novel at times

Overall - I still recommend this book, mostly because of the first and third book in the series. This second book is a bit difficult to get through, but the rewards are worth it.

This is very much a great second book for a trilogy. While the main issues are not yet solved there are many things that have been hinted at that were revealed by the end of this one. As well the character growth was almost even more amazing than in the first book.

Some characters that you were wanting to just never show up on the page any longer you were instead cheering for in this book...

So much more of the live ships mysteries were unraveled. I found those revelations to really change my thoughts on the use of wizard wood as well as adds some very interesting prospects in the final book.

This book (and the Liveship Traders trilogy in summary) is one of the very best high fantasy creations I have ever read. Having been a sci-fi and fantasy reader for somewhere around 40 years now, I have read quite a lot of it, too! Hobb's writing style is unmistakably fantasy material, without being too wordy or flowery, yet still, never descending to the likes of most modern-day general fiction. Outstanding characterization, fantastic world-building without *too* much detail, avoiding the frequent downfall of some fantasy which spends too much time on what every surrounding looks like and/or means. Fat fantasy at its finest, nothing wasted, including your time! If you're a fantasy fan, this one is not to be missed!

I LOVE this series! I was simply going nuts having to waituntil [its release]...[it] lives up to the first two novels, but surpasses them. I thought I'd be bored with the characters by now but I find myself in greater anticipation as I read. My roommate is reading Mad Ship right now and I can't help but taunt her with "I know something you don't know" with most every chapter I finish of the fantastic final book. ::grin::
To anyone starting the series, it took me a good 150 to 200 pages to really get into the first novel. I actually considered not finishing it. I'm not sure if the book just took off after that or I just needed to get used to the characters. Who knows. Who cares! I'm so glad I stuck it out. Also, for those of you who are George R.R. Martin Game of Thrones fans, his third book of that series is coming out in the UK a good 4 or 5 months earlier than the U.S. as well.

I have loved all of Robin Hobb's earlier works (Farseer trilogy and Ship of Magic) and very much enjoyed quite a number of her books when she was writing as Megan Lindholm (Reindeer people, Harpy's Flight) but she's just getting better and better! I zoomed through Mad Ship in a couple of days and my wife was at me to hurry up and finish so she could read it.
In a genre that is so cluttered with stereotypical plots and characters, Hobb's work shines as truly original material. Her characters have flaws and change over the course of the story and I found myself empathizing much more strongly with them than with the typical superhero that slashes his way to a *yawn* predictable save-the-world conclusion.
There's plenty of spoilers in these reviews so I won't add to it but I really can't wait until Ship of Destiny comes out. Keep up the good work Ms. Hobb!

At places, the novel's a bit a melodramatic and soap operatic, but I'm more than willing to forgive Hobb for these faults because she tells a damn good story. As in her Farseer trilogy, there's a nice mixture between the personal struggles of her characters, political concerns, and revelations about the history of the world they all occur in. And Hobb is equally adept at developing all of these elements. I was particularly impressed in the way that each character has grown or matured in his or her own different, but very believable, way. I can't wait for the next book to come out! And hopefully there will be another trilogy or two after that? There's definitely enough material in the world setting to go a long ways.

WOW... i enjoyed Ship of Magic so much that i didnt think it could possibly be surpassed by book two of the series, but i was wrong. In retrospect, book 1 was merely an introduction/set-up book. This book took the plot threads that were introduced in the first book, and completely twisted them in directions you wouldnt have guessed. In addition, it introduced a LOT (and i'm not kidding here) of new plot threads. Just when you finished reading a chapter and said to yourself "that must have been the major event of the book", you read the next chapter only to encounter an even BIGGER event! The whole last half of the book was like this.
Like the first book, the characterizations are superb. These characters really change with the ebb and flow of the story. The focus on main characters has shifted a little as well: Malta plays a much bigger role (i was put off by this at first), as well as Amber and Paragon. Kyle is nearly insignificant. Even Althea and Kennit have slightly different focus. Nevertheless, Hobb writes so well that you feel connected to each of the characters, even the so-called "bad" ones.
Before i picked this book up, i just assumed it would follow the logical path of the first book. Not so! By the time i finished this book, i was so blown away that the first book seemed insignificant (not in a sense that i enjoyed book 1 less however). A few things are resolved, but so many are left hanging that reading the conclusion is a must. Who knows where that book will take you (i'm not going to try and guess this time). I highly recommend that if you read the first book and enjoyed it, you immediately read this book.

So often fantasy series have similar elements that make you wonder if you've read them before. Not the Liveship Traders Trilogy. I've enjoyed reading this series after finishing the Assassin's Apprentice trilogy. It stands well on it's own, but also sets up the next series and has connections to the Farseer books. I'd love to have a week to just sit and read all of Robin Hobb's books.

In the Farseer trilogy that is, and in the Tawny Man series as well. Fool's errand and Golden Fool (which hasn't been released in the poor USA yet) are excellent books and Golden Fool in particular is a five star work. But these Liveship books, which I'm only reading because Tawny Man converges the Farseer and Liveship trilogies just don't match up. Above all they lack the proper characterization. Not that they're stock characters, but outside of Reyn and Paragon none of them make any sort of dent on me. Althea remains bland as butter, Malta's supposed growth may be of interest to someone who is particularly obseesed with coming of age stories but she interests me not a bit. Brashen, Kennit, Wintrow, all "wipe under the carpet" characters. Amber remains enigmatic but doesn't shine. The story gets bogged down too often, with the single upside being the development of the snakes and the release of Tintaglia. Maybe they will make it interesting in the final book. The human characters are failing in making these books work, and there just isn't enough interesting material to keep this reader going. There's action alright, but there's also soooo much talk, especially among the women characters. Like in book one, the discussions between the Vestrit women remind me of a visit to a beauty parlor. Again, the only positive element is the revelations about the snakes/dragons in this book, which is why I'm reading it after all, and why I'm not giving it two stars. But I have to agree with the consensus amongst Hobb fans that her Liveship trilogy is her weakest work.

I was torn between giving this book 4 and 5 stars, and ultimately decided on four because it's simply not as good as Ship of Magic.
That said, this is a truly excellent book. A few of the little hints and the like dropped at the beginning are a little too obvious, but one gets to wonder if that's intentional.
This book maintains the excellent characterization of the previous volume, but far less actually happens in the book. Rather, it's more of a transitory volume: Book one set the stage, this one moves everything to where it needs to be so that Ship of Destiny can come in and tie things up with an amazing ending.
Characters are developing nicely, and there is hope for the serpents now as well. Definitely read this book and this series; Hobb is a master artist.

I am taking a few minutes to write that I throughly enjoyed the second book in the Liveship Traders Trilogy. There is great character and plot development. Many problems come to a head. The logic in the plot may not be perfect but Hobb's skill is such that it didn't matter much to me,

Note: There are a number of key plot points that are not resolved in this book, so it is worth investing up front in the last book of the series for those who enjoyed the first book or the first third of this one. Luckily I have the final book in the series next to my easy chair.

Not since dragons flew over Pern has a world so intriguingly held me in thrall. I am driven to scour libraries and bookstores for these fantastic characters. Learn of pirates, class divisions, civilized economics, family fealty, grief, hope, loyalty, magic, and what makes a being real.

I'm only about a fifth into the book, but I just cannot keep reading it. No, the book is not bad, it is simply that incredibly good that I have to take a break to enjoy the experience fully. I fear that if I keep on reading, the book will end too fast - and the next volume will not be out for another year.
It has been more than half a year since I read through the first volume of this trilogy; just a few weeks before that I read Hobb's Assassin trilogy. Between then and now I have ready many fantasy and sci-fi books, but little has been as good as Hobb's writing (one that I did like and was in a way similar to Hobb's books was Elizabeth Moon's "The Deed of Paksenarrion"). I read the first three parts of Philip Farmer's Riverworld saga just before I began "The Mad Ship" - while reading Riverworld, I found myself often reading quickly, impatient for something to happen. But in "The Mad Ship", every paragraph, every line is significant and enjoyable.
Looking through the books in my bookcases, I don't think I see any author I have enjoyed as much as Robin Hobb. I'm afraid this review has come out as being very subjective and with little fact, but I cannot help wanting to share the joy I have had from reading Mrs. Hobb's work.

Be sure to have a lot of spare time on your hands! this book is as good as the first, and I was slightly miffed that the paperback sequel isn't out yet.
I like seeing Malta develope beyond a spoiled brat into a respectable young lady. I didn't like her in the first book, but am beginning to respect her.
I've always liked Althea, as the strong heroine of the book, and she is beginning to lose some of her brashness.
The thing I don't like about Vivacia is how gullible she is. With all the memories available to her, and Althea's ancestor's opinions on piracy, why does she not realize the evils of piracy? She justifies piracy to free the slaves, however, which is believable.
All in all, a good read.

As a reader and author of fantasy/sci fi for more years than I will confess, I am truly impressed by Mad Ship. The incredible characterizations, the depth of scope, the sheer emotionality of the interchanges between the characters, especially the on-again, off-again relationship between Paragon and Amber, is hard to find in typical fantasy fare. I am also fascinated with the developing bond between Malta and the Rain Wild trader, Reyn.
Oddly enough, the love-hate relationship between Althea and Brashen reminds me of Scarlett O'Hara and Rhett Butler. Althea with her stubborn insistence on taking her life into her own hands, and Brashen, the young rake disinherited from his familiy's fortune who makes his way, regardless of his family or society's opinions of him. Like Rhett with Scarlett, Althea is the only person who can reach Brashen, but does she want to?
Aboard the Vivaca, the competition for the Live-ship's loyalty between Kennit, the pirate with a plan, and Wintrow, the boy who went to sea and became a man, is very psychologically satisfying. Adding the ex-prostitute to the formula kept me spellbound.
This is a wonderful world the author has created, strange and exciting, yet familiar without being trite. Overall, the texture, evocative characters (I hated Malta for a while!) and truly memorable events weave a holistic tapestry that is beyond most fantasy writers out there, and I've read most.
I anxiously wait to find out more in the third book. It would be fine with me if this were not a trilogy but a continuing series such as Robert Jordan has created with his Eye of the World series (now 8 or 9 books, I believe).
Compare Mad Ship's delivery to the Chung Kuo sci-fi series by David Wingrove, with the quest excitement of J.V. Jones' Baker's Boy series, and the authenticity of an explicit alien world and its residents to Jordan's Eye of the World. Add to that, the detailed information of Jean Auel's Clan of the Cave Bear series. Truly fabulous, a must-read. Only one problem. Although it appears large, it's over entirely too soon, and the wait between books is too long.
I'll be waiting though, if Parts 1 and 2, Ship of Magic and Mad Ship, are any indication, I'm sure the author has something fabulous planned for Part 3.

All I can say is WOW. I read the paperback edition of "Ship of Magic" (great read, by the way) and couldn't wait to get my hands on "Mad Ship". Bought it, hardcover and all. I read it in five hours. Don't miss this one, folks. It's stunning from cover to cover. I admit that the scenes with the serpents are a little hard to bear, but other then that it's all good.
We learn a lot of things about the liveships and delve deeper into the minds of the characters; a lot of shocking things happen.
But don't take my word for it. Read the book and see for yourself.

Virtues and faults remain much the same as the first book. On the one hand, it's much longer than necessary, mostly due to lots of "talkie" scenes, and, as a result, I was drawn away from favorite characters much longer than I would have preferred. There's also much less actually happening here than I would like to see. But, on the other, Hobb spins a lovely swashbuckler of a tale within a surprising and wonderful realized world. Looking forward to the sequel.

I stayed up late to finish the book and was late to work the next day. You can see the professional reviews and I don't want to spoil it for you. The characters are real. The author doesn't just paint a scene, she uses colour, scent, tactile, flavour, heft, and duration. Unlike a classic hero epic, her heros grow up during the Quest and learn from the adversity of it. The "bad guys" aren't evil incarnate, they're like some sods I used to work for. I wish the author God Speed, Good Luck, and hurry up with the next book please!!!!!

Like many of the reviewers, I fell in love with Robin Hobb's writing in her acclaimed Farseer trilogy. I saw that her strength was in completely believable self motivated characters in a viable world setting. In this series, some of the characters just don't work for me (Malta, Kyle, Kennit, Etta, all major roles in the series unfortunately) and consequentially the books don't rate very high in my opinion. Hobb's writing style is still excellent and in this series she has clearly worked on her vocabulary significantly since the Farseer works.

Typically I'll read a book of this size in about 4 weeks (I'm self employed and work lots of hours leaving little time for reading!) -- this one took me 3 months to get through because I just didn't give a darn about so many of the main characters.

Now, that said, I did finish the book as well as the series and can confidently say that its worth the tedium of this book to get to the next one (which I finished in half the normal time because it was so darn good from cover to cover).

In this continuation Hobb does excellent. She still manages to balance all of the intertwining plotlines, and intoduce more characters. Some you love, others you love to hate. You see transformations of the exsisting characters, and Hobb does not allow to you to get bored for a single second. I couldn't put the book down (not even for Finals), and I love it. The writing is excellent, the dialog superb, and the characters believable. Truly a gem.
Why isn't the next one out yet! ;-)

I can't say I loved the first book, it left too much open for my taste, though being the first in a series that isn't surprising. However I was expecting something closer to Assassin's Apprentice which could have sat allown. In this book many of the questions in the first are not answered but their broadened. You are given more hints to the conclusion and thankfully the author is not as cruel with these charactors as she was in the Farseer series but again the plot of the series isn't as dark. For those that have read the Farseer you will notice farmilar items as is to be expected when writing in the same universe and brings hope that Hobb will return to the life and times of Fritz and the Farseers. I for one would love to see a happier ending for the character.
A devoted fan.

I have been reading fantasy since the age of 8 or 9 and earlier this year, at 19, I had begun to compile a list of authors whose work stands above the rest in story, characterization, originality, and imagery but is nonetheless not difficult to get through. Guy Gavriel Kay was the first author I read and it was his writing which encouraged me to journey into the land of fanatasy/sci-fi. This was followed by mediocre work until I discovered Tad Williams' remarkable ability to weave a magnificent plot with unusual characters. Then I discovered George R.R. Martin's work among others. However, after reading the assassin trilogy by Hobb, that list of amazing authors began to dissipate in my mind. It has taken many years for an author to so involove me in a story that I dream about it every night for days.(the last time that happened was a delerious fever that I had during TIGANA by G.G.Kay, that name burned into my brain forever...) The first novel in the Liveship Traders series by Hobb, Ship of Magic, exceeded all of my expectations for a sci-fi/fantasy work. IMHO, I believe the best science fiction and fantasy, in order to be of value, must address human and/or worldly issues and not simply provide a means of escapism. Ask any English major and they will tell you one of the largest sources of drama is human drama(man vs. man, man vs. nature, vs. himself, supernatural, etc..) Fantasy and sci-fi simply provide the ideal atmosphere or environment to demonstrate your point, especially concerning issues which are not easily addressable during everyday human existence. No matter how gifted the author, I still knew in the most cynical part of my brain at the back of my head it was fantasy and, in most cases, unrealistic. Robin Hobb transcended that belief with characters I either became, or loved deeply, a setting so real I would have visual flashbacks during MILD drug experimentation months later, and a plot so cleverly contrived to rival the most intricate political novel or the most mysterious detective novel. In short: If you have not read Robin Hobb, start with the assassin trilogy, but remember, the best is yet to come, and if you have, I highly reccommend Guy Gavriel Kay's Tigana, and George R.R. Martin's A Game of Thrones. I appreciate your responses.
Mike Spendlove [email protected]

...you will be unable to put it down. Hobb is wonderful at making her tale flow; I rushed headlong through the 800 or so pages, finishing the book in less than two days. I was in so bad that I even pretended to be sick one day, just to stay home from school and read the darn thing. (Actually, by now I'm certain I *was* sick, but the book had something to do with it anyway...)
The characters are very believable, and if you don't agree with me, you'll at least be astounded by how emotially involved you will be! I can't wait for SHIP OF DESTINY to come out, I really can't.....it's so unfair that fans in the UK can reach Hobb's books first.....!

As with many of the other reviewers, I eagerly awaited this book after thoroughly enjoying "Ship of Magic" and was not disappointed. Hobb does a great job of enriching the characterization of Malta, Wintrow, Etta and Reyn, leaving me more interested in their destiny, and that of the "liveships" (very ironic term now), than in the destiny of Althea, who was the center of focus in SOM. Hobb also provides sufficient clues about Amber to entice us to eagerly anticipate her destiny and significant contribution in this journey. Even the "tangle" seems more interesting now, and although the "untangling" of its destiny seems predictable, I hope that Hobb still has surprises in store for us in "Ship of Destiny." Hobb is commended for not shortening any of the segments, as even these relatively long stories are rich with engaging detail throughout. Perhaps some day she will be recognized for providing us much greater value and enjoyment than many/all? of her writing peers.

Pretty cool. This time it had a bit more Hobbness, but still a bit lacking. And the rape put me off. So unfortunately I won't be reading any more of Robin Hobb, but I will ask a friend of mine how the dragon mystery goes, because that is what I was really interested in.
p.s. I still think Robin Hobb is a legend, just needs to stick to her stuff.

The living ship idea is fairly clever, but neither the characters nor the plot ever really engage the reader. I had difficulty keeping track of who was who and the interrelationships among the characters. About half way through the book, I simply threw in the towel, which is rare for me. I've read widely in this genre, and generally insist on finishing a book once I've invested so much time in it. But this one just never gets going. There are some interesting concepts in the backdrop, but the overall story and characters failed to hold my attention.

I love this book! I got it the day that it came out and couldn't put it down since. I would say that it is the best, but all of her books are the best. You can't choose one over the others. But this one is splendid. I enjoyed from beginning to end. There is not a dull word in this thing! Robin Hobb is one of the BEST fantasy writers I have ever come across. I can barely wait for her next one. If you love fantasy books, read this.

I was up reading until 2:00am, until I just couldn't keep my eyes open any longer with this book. I just love Paragon and will be in agony until Ship of Destiny comes out, waiting to find out what happens to him. Is Kennet his family? Will Vivacia want Althea, when they meet again? Will the serpents survive to become dragons? Will they take revenge for their lost brethren? Too many questions to ponder in the next year!

All i need to say is that if you have read the first book, 'Ship of Magic' then you really ought to read this. It continues exactly where the first book left off, and carries on with the original brilliant storyline, but also it gives you a whole lot more background information and introduces you to more relevant key elements of the novel. A definate must buy, but i would advise that you read book one first.

This is a good second novel, not a great one. Hobbs tries to collapse too much material into the alloted space, and doesn't *quite* pull it off. I would rather she had shaped this series as a quartet, and split off some of this into another book. Either that, or had an editor who would have reined in her tendancy to tell rather than show. This tendancy made for slow going, and much "why should I care?" thoughts as I read this.

This series is one of the greatest I have ever had the pleasure to delve into. I did not think that Robin could have surpassed her previous works but she keeps doing it. This book is non stop reading, and don't buy this book unless you have a strong marriage. My wife got a little irritated because I was in another world while reading it. My highest recommendation.

The farseer trilogy was fantastic . The liveship traders managed to improve on that . Hobbs is in many ways comparable to George R.R. Martin . Sometimes her prose exceeds anything I have ever read .
It is not epic fantasy like Feist or Jordan or Eddings , being on an even smaller scale than Martin , but while the scale is small , it is possibly as rich as Jordan , as fluid and natural as Martin ,as expressive as Terry Pratchett ,and with characterisation that exceeds any of the above ,because she manages to put herself into her many characters' perspectives and express each of their convoluted thought or concept as few other writers can .
I haven't read book 2 yet but I wanted to be the first to lavish praise on it .
Buy it the 1st second it's out .U cannot possibly regret it .

This trilogy is really coming along nicely. Intelligent fantasy is a rare treat these days and Hobb's world is well thought out and elegantly detailed. Her characters are well fleshed out.
In this series Hobb (so far) has managed to avoid some of the pitfalls that beset her Assasin trilogy. I hope number 3 lives up to expectations.

So many stories of the genre, although containing fantastic ideas and story line, lack depth of character. Not so with the creations of Robin Hobb. You even believe that a Ship IS ALIVE...and often wonder what its reaction will be to certain situations. What next? will VIVACIA ever meet PARAGON? Oh my! what a series.........

You would be MAD to miss this one. Truly one of the greatist epics of storytelling I've experienced. Don't let me ruin it by telling you how good the character's and plot are, experience it for yourself. This series is so good you will feel like you are there, living with the characters. That's why I LOVED IT!!!

I'm only adding my voice of praise for this book to bring up the average rating to the level I feel it deserves. Not since George R.R. Martin's "A song of ice and fire" have I read a series with such character depth and panoramic vision. Many nights I'd curse, roll over, turn my reading light back on to read "just one more chapter".

A friend suggested this series to me and not being way big into fantasy stuff I was hesitant. So glad I decided his opinion mattered...I am on the third and dreading the end. I will buy more of Robin Hobbs books.

This second book of the series is just as meaty and intruiging as the first. It pulls you in and keeps you reading well into the wee hours! The characters are so rich and full, you really come to care about them and their lives. A very well written bridge book for the series.

Mad Ship lives up to the standard of the Assassin trilogy and the Ship of Magic. This series doesn't seem to be as bleak as the Assassin one was (things just might work out for the characters for once) and whereas the second book in a trilogy often seems to be a bit pointless (a random quest or battle, just to tide the reader into the big finale in the last novel) Mad Ship adds a lot to the characters established in Ship of Magic, and keeps you gripped - one of those "just one more chapter" books, until it's five in the morning and you've finished it. A really satisfying book - apart from the fact that I want to know what happens next.

I am really pulled into these books. When I'm done, I'm the one who is "drowning in memories"!
The only bad thing I can think of about this book is that Robin Hobb can't write as fast as I read! (Read it in one afternoon and evening)

I loved this book! Carrying on the plot from the first book, Robin weaves and twists the story line until you have no idea where it is going to end up. The characters are suffused with such powerfull emotions that you find it very difficult not to be dragged right into the heart of the story. You love, hate, laugh and cry all the way through it with the characters you cherish and the ones you love to hate. I am avidly haning out for the next installment. Way to go Robin!

I love this book. As someone who watches the craft of a writer, I am always taken with an author who can suck me in, keep me guessing, wrap me within a character's head, and leave me wanting more. I rarely find such writers. Ms. Hobb is one. Read Ship of Magic first to get the context, although you don't HAVE to. The characters will come alive in any case.

I was absolutely taken away by the Farseer Trilogy, and the Liveship Traders does not appear to be any different. Most fantasy books focus on the happy ending scenario, but Robin Hobb, in her last trilogy, touched on the baser elements of society and humankind. Fitz did not end up living happily ever after, and that alone made her story unique annd compelling. Robert Jordan needs to be weary of her, because she can, and probably will, steal his fan base.

As an avid reader never have I been so totally absorbed, made to beleive the characters are so real to life as Robin Hobb makes them. She creates an imaginary world that is so beleivable, how will I bear the wait for book III?.

I really like this series. I like the characters and the way they are developing (There may be hope for Malta yet!). I like the flavor of tragedy that permeates this story without destroying all hope. I find it to be refreshing and original, which can be difficult even in the world of Fantasy. I find myself hoping that things work out well for Althea and her family, intrigued about Amber's origens, and wondering what will happen to Brashen beofre it all ends. And then, there are the ships...

The Mad Ship by Robin Hobb begins where book one of the Liveship Trader's trilogy, "Ship of Magic" left off. Althea Vestrit, daughter of the late captain Vestrit, continues on a personal journey to retake Vivacia, her stolen live-ship. Wintrow still resides aboard that ship, which is now over-taken by pirates. Malta remains determined to find and save her father Kyle, whom was also was left aboard the Vivacia; Keffria is struggling to take control of the family; and as before, everything is essentially collapsing and crumbling around the once solid family. Though the hope that once existed for the Vestrit's has been, for the most part, extinguished, the family unit still struggles to prevail and restore itself. This all, of course, leads to yet another lengthy series of drama, politics, live-ships, and yes, self discovery. This time, however, the fate of not only the Vestrit's hang in the balance, but the whole of Bingtown itself.

To begin, I have to say that this novel was a mixed bag for me - and in many ways (and for several reasons), was quite a disappointment. Although Mad Ship began with a bang and had quite a compelling and engaging start, I felt that it all quickly tapered off into an abyss of repetition. Upon approaching around the midway mark, things became bogged down and heavy. The characters kept saying the same things over and over - the writing became redundant - the natural flow and evolution of the story, for me, came to a halt. There were times when Hobb would go on and on about a particular topic, stretching out what could have been said in two paragraphs into a few chapters. Because of the overall slowness of the plot and story, there were several occasions where continuing felt more like a duty, rather than an enjoyment.

Another issue I had, was the imbalance of time given to each character. Through-out the novel, chapters would switch between characters and their situations, giving the reader a lot to take in. This was great - until suddenly a character and their story would simply vanish. By the time the character was mentioned again (many chapters later), my interest level had dropped. This really killed the experience. Another fault, was the disjointed story. For instance, while the conclusion was actually quite interesting and enjoyable, it lacked a connection with the rest of the novel. Looking back at the majority of Mad Ship, the reading experience was quite strange. About three quarters of it was this long, drawn out soap opera (complete with bitter, whiny characters), and yet suddenly, there was this intriguing fantasy piece pasted in at the end. It was all a bit odd, and for me, the flow of the novel felt broken.

Finally, at least in the complaint department, was the lack of description. Though I admit, I am a sucker for lush, flowery, poetic writings that paint surreal and vivid pictures, I don't really think that's the issue here. As a person whom' is familiar with Hobb's work (and enjoy most of what I've read), I didn't come in expecting floods of archaic depictions. Instead, I expected the comfortable, Hobb-esque styled writing that I've grown to enjoy. Unfortunately however, the further I progressed into the novel, the stronger my disappointment grew with the actual writing itself. For whatever reason, it seemed as though Hobb had acquired a severe case of "tell rather than show" when writing Mad Ship, and instead of describing the events - and describing the situation and surroundings - actually painting the picture - it was all very simplistic and dull. Person A did this; person B did that; this happened; that happened. I'm not sure what was going on here, but the style was so dry that I actually felt like falling asleep. Where was the artistic element?

Though my experience with Mad Ship, wasn't nearly as positive as expected, I can't say that all was a amiss. While I certainly didn't enjoy the characters as much as I did with the Farseer trilogy, there was still a great deal of unexpected development - especially from characters I never really cared for from the previous installment. For instance, there was Malta, who's evolution was both realistic and intriguing. Hobb did an excellent job transitioning her from little girl to young woman, and by the end of Mad Ship, I began to feel a sort of sympathy for her - one that I could never quite obtain because of her childish, bratty attitude. Reyn (Malta's destined husband), was also a pleasant surprise, as he began to show a new, more relateable side. Lastly, but certainly not least, was Kennit. Though he had already grown on me by the end of "Ship of Magic," the growing continued through-out this entire novel, and strangely, Captain Kennit has gradually evolved into one of my favorite characters of the series thus far. His complex and conflicting personality was a refreshing element that added a much needed realism (and humanity, though a darker form) to the novel.

With that said (and I hate to say it), Mad Ship for me, was an overall disappointment. While there were a handful of moments, especially toward the end, there was far too much filler, and the slow moving plot made reading this 800 + page novel more of a chore than anything. From the disjointed story, to the lack of description, to the over-all lack of progression -- Mad Ship failed to ever really pull me in. Though I truly consider myself to be a fan of Hobb, and will forever adore her Farseer trilogy, I plan to take a break from her later works to read something a bit lighter of heart -- for there's only so much one can take in the realm of misery and politics (at least for me). When going into a fantasy novel, I expect certain things -- and in this case, almost none of those things were met.

Though Mad Ship for me was clear a disappointment, I can't and won't say that it should be avoided, especially if one has already connected with the characters. Besides, my opinion is just that, and in the grand scheme of things, we all know what they say about opinions! So, with that said, if you've read the first installment and enjoyed it -- then by all means, continue on. The characters are still here; the idea is still in place; the live-ships and serpents are aplenty. But if you're looking for the same heart, soul, and intrigue that graced the pages of "Ship of Magic," then there's a fair chance that you won't find it here -- at least to the same extent. Instead, you may find the same bleak, gray, slow moving world I discovered when delving into this tome sized novel. Overall, this experience wasn't a positive one. I was expecting so much more, and Mad Ship simply failed to deliver.

[...]

kind of a slow starting book/trilogy. Really wanted to read tawney man trilogy but new i should read robin hobbs books in order. Overall a good book. Don't think i'd read it again though. Has must read information about characters from the first trilogy and continued in the tawney man i think.

Superbly written, the characters come alive through Hobb's words. All the promises made in the first installment are more than fulfilled. The story is so rich in detail, it doesn't feel like fantasy but reality. Malta has grown from a spoiled brat into an interesting young woman; Althea, Vivacia, ... all personalities are so real. Only Robert Jordan equals Hobb's in creating 'live' characters. I can hardly wait for the third part of the series. Even better than the Farseer trilogy
Superb!

The same quality of fantasy as the first "Ship of Magic" the "Mad Ship" keeps the story alive and interesting by introducing new ideas and going deeper into the already developed concepts. You can either quickly skim or go slow and envelope every word. (i do both depending on my mood). A quality read the whole way thru, thanks "Robin Hobb" (its her pen-name).

Superbly written, the characters come alive through Hobb's words. All the promises made in the first installment are more than fulfilled. The story is so rich in detail, it doesn't feel like fantasy but reality. Malta has grown from a spoiled brat into an interesting young woman; Althea, Vivacia, ... all personalities are so real. Only Robert Jordan equals Hobb's in creating 'live' characters. I can hardly wait for the third part of the series. Even better than the Farseer trilogy
Superb!

The same quality of fantasy as the first "Ship of Magic" the "Mad Ship" keeps the story alive and interesting by introducing new ideas and going deeper into the already developed concepts. You can either quickly skim or go slow and envelope every word. (i do both depending on my mood). A quality read the whole way thru, thanks "Robin Hobb" (its her pen-name).

Hobb carries on the brilliant tradition started in the assassin trilogy. I am shocked, I have absolutely no criticisms of this book, it was wonderful. Hobb is a master at intriguing and unpredictable plots and an excellent story teller. She is one of the best authors out there don't miss this book!

i just have to say Robin hobb has once again writen a wonderful book and i can't wait till the third book. there are so many things i want to know like how will every thing turn out and things like that.

Mad Ship was certainly worthy of being the sequel to the equally amazing first book in the Liveship Trader Series: "Ship Of Magic." I actually found "Mad Ship" more exciting than the first! I couldn't put it down! The only thing that made me upset was that it ended way too fast! I must now wait for the third one! It was a fabulous story, and I can't wait for "Ship of Destiny!"

I await the second book with baited breath. The first in the Liveship Traders trilogy was wonderfully detailed and had an entralling story. I definately recommend this book to anyone who likes fantasy, history, romance...
Her attention to detail and her deep characters make me want to read her books again and again! Her Farseer Trilogy was just as good. Look into those also.

I love the way she writes, much beter then most of the other fantasy wrighters i have read. I love the way she will give you informaton early in the book and give you time to think before she tells you what the information really means. I love it when i figure out what is going to hapen before it hapens and it makes me feel more into the book itself. Great Book Robin!

Fantasy in a different setting. The characters are good and I would now put Hobb in the top five Fantasy authors. Kennit is brilliant and Malta (who was annoying in Book 1) comes into her own. Book 3 is also great.

Beautifully written and completely intriguing, this series is beginning to live up to the expectations set by the Farseer trilogy. With deep and multi-dimensional characters and a complex and gripping plot, I think we can safely say Robin Hobb is one of the best writers out there today! I highly recommend!

I must be missing something. I was not too much of a Meghan Lindholm fan before she became Robin Hobb, but I must admit I really enjoyed the Farseer books. There is a forced quality to the writing here that does not appeal to me, however. The characterizations lack depth and humanity--I'm sorry--I don't see it. Perhaps it is so wrapped up in the extremes of the fantasy.
I am also annoyed that this book did not tie in to the first volume the way it should have.

An excellent sequel to SHIP OF MAGIC. Developing characters even further, this book drove to further the readers' understanding of the characters' emotions and feelings. Its quality is due to the well developed characters and the fast moving action.

I have read both of the live ship traders books of robin hobb and the whole farseer trilogy robin hobb is a excellent writer and i love all the books she has wrote so far this book is a must read as is all of her books but where is the third one in this series?

Robin Hobb is an enormous fan of Robert Stanek's books, both authors live in Washington state, so I decided to see if Hobb's books were as good as Stanek's. I'm pleased to say I'm enjoying the ones I've read so far!

I really sometimes wonder why I keep reading and reviewing fantasy books. For years, Jordan's been the only one in the genre with anything interesting to say. Hobb nearly came to be an exception with her Farseer Trilogy, but that series also was ruined by the boring, stupid third volume.
And now we have this hell or high water -type of saga about some traders and their fortunes and misfortunes in the world. The politics of the series are actually quite interesting, the internal relationships of the characters believable enough, but all that nonsense about dragons, serpents and living ships - I just don't get it. Well, certainly those things are essential in a fantasy book, but still... Why can't Hobb come up with something even relatively fascinating? Why should I care about some god-damned sea serpents and their complicated transformation process? The sections about 'Maulkin's tangle' were quite torturing and I only read them to keep up with the story.
After all this whining, still better than average. Hobb is more a real writer than all those Joneses and Goodkinds put together. Well.

You know I did not think I would like this series but again Robin Hobb blew me away like winds against the sails of the LiveShips in this series. I was totally immersed in this world and love the Rain wilds. I would move there in a second if I could (lol). Burning river water, facial disfigurement and all. My favorite characters were Wintrow and Malta in this book. Malta came across as a real stuck up pompus ass but I soon grew to admire her as the series progressed. Wintrow broke my heart. The pain, suffering, and journey to manhood that he had to endure was at times painful to be witness to. I had to put the book down and cover my face during his most painful trials and tribulations. I was such a Fool for starting this series earlier that at times I can hear Lady Patience in my mind scolding to no ends for being such stubborn oaf like Burrich. This series was definitely worth readying before the Tawny Man series. I am so glad that I did pick books up. Queen Kettricken is sure to be please that I made the Sacrifice. Kudos to Ms. Hobb for turning me into a sailor as I read this series. Hopefully I won't end up a pirate like Kenneth.