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.
Beggars's QuarterA labyrinthine warren where cutpurses, information brokers, and black market traders ply their trades.
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.
Pannernine’sA lively wineshop known for its relaxed atmosphere.
The ShamblesThe Shambles is a notorious district where crime and a sense of lawlessness pervade.
Temple CatacombsAn extensive series of tunnels beneath the temple district where the dead are buried.
Temple DistrictOnce revered for its divine significance, this area now stands as a poignant reminder of lost faith.
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.
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.
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 Silver Harp*
A fine establishment that caters to nobles and wealthy merchants. Known for its elegant decor and exquisite cuisine.
The Weary Beggar*
One of the best tavern breakfasts in the city.
* newly featured in The Assassin's Cunning
The Series