Case Study: The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch

Introduction

2025/04/19

Case studies are almost like my review of a book I recently read and is fresh in memory. Some of it will be impressions and other more elaborated, however it will be reviewed through the lens of a writer. Such that what I liked, learned and would avoid doing in my writing (as a personal preference not because there is anything wrong with it).

THERE WILL BE SPOILERS FOR THE ACTUAL BOOK!

Setting, theme and tone

• Renaissance High-ish Fantasy
• Magic not the main focus, alchemy has a larger role
• Venice inspired setting
• 'Self-made' *wink-wink* wealth and family
• Life of a con-artist(s)
• Moderate violence, not so much gore as unsettling scenes
• Sarcasm and satire
• Bromance

Well done aspects

• Illustrative descriptions with flare and elegance
• Some can become exhaustive or multiple expositions staked in close after one another
• 'Boys will be boys' cast
• Not in an immature or childish way, but (as expected) trouble does follow
• Enjoyed the 'educated' manner and dialogue (without it becoming melodramatic)
• Clear satire when poking fun at the rich and their customs
• Theatrical con-artistry through dramatic acting was fun and engaging
• Minor magical and alchemical elements were interesting, would like to know more
• Consequences of character decisions were well balanced for the most part
• Sometimes I felt like the author could give the characters a break
• Interesting 'sea-based' lifestyle associated with the floating city and its sea beasties beneath
• Interspersing other character PoVs or historical PoVs within main plot line was a neat way to do 'flash-backs' without it being contrived or jarring

Could be improved aspects

• Some of the descriptions and dialogue could get long winded
• Why did so many of the Gentleman Bastards have to die? ...

Lessons learned

• Loved the illustrative descriptions of the city and people
• The sarcasm and satire was on point
• Definitely adding the rest of the series to my next book haul