I love Robin Hobb, and my favourite book is Assassins Apprentice. However, The Mad Ship comes a close second. It is the second book of the Liveship Traders Trilogy, and I found it to be a real page turner. What I admire about Robin Hobb is the way she constructs her plots; they are full of unexpected twists and turns. Also, the amount of double dealing, scheming and plotting on the part of the characters makes it twice as interesting.

Her characterisation in this trilogy is also masterful. The characters are believable (even the liveships themselves), and I found that I became completely involved with them.

In this book, the main character, Althea, has been separated from her ship, the Vivacia. Vivacia has been captured by Captain Kennit, a pirate (and a great character). Althea and her lover, Brashen are heading for a confrontation with Kennit. But the adventure is about to become more exciting as dragons and serpents are going to take an active part. This is a very simplified summary of the plot, which actually is very complex.

The book leaves you wanting to know what happens next, so I am about to read Book Three of the trilogy. Lets hope it is as good as The Mad Ship.