Vlad Taltos
About the Series
The 'Vlad Taltos' series follows the life of Vlad Taltos, a human assassin living in a world dominated by the Dragaeran Empire, which is populated by powerful, long-lived beings known as Dragaerans. As a member of the Eastern Province, Vlad navigates through a society filled with political intrigue, magic, and complex social hierarchies. The series blends elements of fantasy, mystery, and adventure, chronicling Vlad's struggles against both the Dragaeran aristocracy and his own moral dilemmas as he seeks to carve out a place for himself in a world that often seems stacked against him. With a distinctive first-person narrative, the books delve into themes of power, loyalty, and identity while incorporating sharp humor and intricate world-building.
Series Details
- Author:Steven Brust
- Started:1990
- Books:6
- Status:Complete
Genres
Themes
Books in Order
Jhereg
1990The first book in the series introduces Vlad Taltos, a low-born assassin who works for the powerful Jhereg crime syndicate. As Vlad juggles his profession with the complexities of his personal life, he finds himself embroiled in a conspiracy that threatens his existence and the lives of those he cares about.
Yendi
1991In this sequel, Vlad faces a powerful foe in the form of a rival assassin. The stakes are higher as he navigates the treacherous waters of Dragaeran politics and magic, leading to unexpected alliances and betrayals.
Teckla
1992Vlad's journey continues as he confronts the societal issues of class and oppression within the Dragaeran Empire. This installment delves deeper into his relationships and the moral complexities of his actions.
Taltos
1994In 'Taltos', Vlad learns more about his heritage and the ancient powers that shape his destiny. The narrative weaves between the past and present, revealing secrets that could alter the course of his life.
Phoenix
1999This book explores the consequences of Vlad's past decisions and the impact they have on his future. As he faces new challenges, Vlad must confront his own beliefs and the cost of his lifestyle.
Agyar
1993While technically a standalone novel, 'Agyar' features the same universe and shares thematic ties with the Vlad Taltos series, focusing on a different character but exploring similar ideas of identity and power.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'Vlad Taltos' a standalone series or part of a larger universe?
The 'Vlad Taltos' series is part of a larger universe created by Steven Brust, which includes other series and standalone novels sharing the same setting and themes.
What is the reading order for the 'Vlad Taltos' series?
The recommended reading order is to start with 'Jhereg' and continue sequentially through the series: 'Yendi', 'Teckla', 'Taltos', and 'Phoenix', along with the standalone novel 'Agyar' for additional context.
What makes the 'Vlad Taltos' series unique compared to other fantasy series?
The series is notable for its blend of humor, intricate plotting, and deep character development, combined with a unique first-person narrative style that offers an intimate look into Vlad's psyche and moral dilemmas.