THE ASSASSIN'S CUNNING
Book Two of the Assassin Without a Name Series
About the Book
A ruthless assassin. A dangerous bargain. A city on the brink of chaos.
For the Assassin Without a Name, survival means staying one step ahead of enemies and rivals alike. But when the cunning and relentless Gwendolyn Goddard makes him an offer he can’t refuse, he’s drawn into a deadly game of deception, murder, and high-stakes intrigue.
Tasked with eliminating a key rival within the Progressive Society, the Nameless Assassin must navigate treacherous alliances, evade the relentless Black Guard, and unravel the mystery of an artifact that could change the city’s fate forever.
As old grudges ignite and shadows lengthen, the Assassin Without a Name faces an impossible choice that could cost him everything.
Perfect for fans of gritty sword and sorcery fantasy, fast-paced action, and morally complex antiheroes, The Assassin’s Cunning is a thrilling tale of espionage, betrayal, and the fine line between survival and honor.
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Reader Praise
"Scott Marlowe strikes gold again with the continuing adventures of the Nameless Assassin." - Goodreads reviewer
"This series is full of memorable characters and twists and turns aplenty." - Amazon reviewer
"Nonstop action and intrigue!" - Amazon reviewer
Sample Chapters
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Wine List
Most wines in the Assassin Without a Name series are fictitious, though many are based on characteristics found in the many wines of our world.
Barmeda sherry
A dry, light, and smooth sherry with a slightly salty tang.
Crusus Sabeler
A sweet white with a fine bouquet and nutty flavor. A member of the shiraz family of wines. The best shiraz wines come from grapes grown in terraced vineyards.
Jisendell Port
A smooth red fortified with the perfect amount of brandy.
Mullender
A dry red.
Scarlet Tempest
A deep red.
Characters
ElizaMathilda's daughter.
KemA priest who believes that even the truly lost can be saved.
MalakaiAll around scallawag. Informer.
Mason GouldThe Assassin Without a Name's brother-in-law.
OpheliaProprietor of The Lazy Minstrel.
RabbetThief, beggar, informer.
ZarekSilent Thorns master assassin.
Black Guard
Jakaree
Warders
Places
Aikon CemeteryA cemetery where the dead have a knack for rising from the grave.
AlchesterThe thriving capital city of Kallendor.
BarmedaA charming Seacean vineyard known for its exquisite sherry.
Grainger TownA borough filled with a dynamic blend of shops, taverns, markets, and theaters.
The GroggeryA raucous tavern known for its boisterous ambiance and lively patrons.
Guild HouseThe secretive base of operations for Alchester's infamous thieves' guild.
KallendorA sprawling realm characterized by picturesque landscapes of grassy plains, densely wooded glens, and vibrant meadows.
The Lazy MinstrelA shat-in-the-wall tavern known for its warm ambiance and vibrant atmosphere.
Lockley’s DepositoryA venerable bank where whispers of local affairs and gossip intertwine with discussions of wealth and investments.
The Mulling MuleA rough-and-tumble sanctuary for rogues, ruffians, and ruthless backstabbers.
Osterland'sA prestigious wineshop located along the charming Tanglewood Drive.
Beggar’s Quarter
This gritty section of the city is steeped in danger and intrigue. Dark alleyways and shadowy corners hide the criminal underbelly of society, where cutpurses and shady figures roam. Characters navigate this tense environment with caution, knowing that treachery lurks around every turn.
The Dusty Shelf*
Dover Heights bookstore that specializes in rare and hard-to-find books. The proprietor is Claire Carter.
Finrad’s Magnificent Tower
A towering relic of forgotten magic shrouded in legend and mystery. Once home to the powerful wizard Finrad, this cursed edifice is said to hold dark secrets and whispers of those who mysteriously disappeared in its shadow. Adventurers and curious souls tread carefully around its imposing walls, aware of the dangers that lie within.
Isadora's Apothecary Shop
Nestled in a hidden corner of Alchester, Isadora's apothecary shop looms ominously, a relic of its former purpose now steeped in darkness and malevolence. Once the domain of a respected herbalist, the shop has become a haunting lair where the air thickens with the scent of noxious potions and dark magic. Its creaking sign hangs precariously above the rotting wooden door, inviting only the most daring—or foolish—into its depths. Inside, shelves cluttered with bubbling concoctions, cryptic herbs, and glass jars filled with strange substances create a disquieting atmosphere. Here, Isadora conducts her sinister rituals, relentlessly pursuing her vengeful agenda against her sister.
The Jaded Peacock
A lively tavern where laughter and music fill the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Here, patrons gather to share stories, forge friendships, and enjoy a refreshing drink after long days in the bustling city. Its vibrant ambiance serves as a backdrop for encounters that can alter the course of one’s fate.
Jakaree Lair
This lair in the Temple District serves as both a home and a sanctuary for the mysterious Jakaree. Known for their unique magical abilities and enigmatic presence, the Jakaree add an air of intrigue to this unassuming establishment. Within its walls, personal ties and unspoken obligations intertwine, creating a charged atmosphere where characters navigate complex relationships and pressing debts. Onius’ Place stands as a crossroads of opportunity and loyalty, beckoning those seeking guidance or a hidden agenda.
Khoras*
City of legend and myth, thought to precede Alchester but destroyed long ago. Called Nyrax by goblin and ratfolk.
King's Stockyards*
Located outside the city walls. All manner of livestock are slaughtered here before distribution to butchers inside the city.
ries are shared, friendships are forged, and the true essence of Alchester comes to life.
Mullin’s Pawn Shop
A pawn shop whose owner, Evelyn, isn't above delving into the black market when there's money to be made.
Pannernine’s
A lively wineshop known for its relaxed atmosphere and camaraderie, where locals gather to unwind after grueling tasks. Friendly faces and spirited discussions create an inviting environment, making it a perfect spot for characters seeking both companionship and an escape from the day’s challenges.
Ridlin’s Den
Part gaming hall, part grogshop, all cesspit. Owned by Ridlin.
Rogue’s Den*
Secret hangout for those who know about it. If you know, you know. If you don’t, you shouldn’t try to find it.
The Shambles
The Shambles is a notorious district in Alchester, infamous for its chaotic and dangerous atmosphere, where crime thrives amid dilapidated buildings and a sense of lawlessness. Often seen as a haven for cutthroats and street gangs, the area is marked by squalid living conditions, with residents enduring noisy disturbances and a pervasive odor. The local city watch shuns the district, allowing criminal activity to flourish unchecked, while the unwritten social dynamics require a keen sense of survival among its inhabitants. Despite its treachery, The Shambles holds a vital place in the city's identity, embodying the struggles and resilience of those navigating its perilous streets.
The Silver Harp*
A fine establishment that caters to nobles and wealthy merchants. Known for its elegant decor and exquisite cuisine.
Temple Catacombs
Extensive series of tunnels beneath the temple district. Once, they were used as a place to bury the dead, earning the catacombs the name, "the realm of the dead."
The Temple District
Once revered for its divine significance, this area now stands as a poignant reminder of lost faith. Abandoned worship sites and crumbling edifices populate the district, which is now inhabited by vagrants. It offers a glimpse into a past where gods reigned, drawing the curious traveler into its hushed reflections and remnants of devotion.
The Weary Beggar*
One of the best tavern breakfasts in the city.
* newly featured in The Assassin's Cunning
The Series