Hobb is a remarkable storyteller GUARDIAN the second volume in this superb trilogy from the author of the Farseer trilogy continues the dramatic tale of piracy; serpents; love and magic. the Vestrit familys liveship; Vivacia; has been taken by the pirate king; Kennit. Held captive on board; Wintrow Vestrit finds himself competing with Kennit for Vivacias love as the ship slowly acquires her own bloodlust. Leagues away; Althea Vestrit has found a new home aboard the liveship Ophelia; but she lives only to reclaim the Vivacia and with her friend; Brashen; she plans a dangerous rescue. Meanwhile in Bingtown; the fading fortunes of the Vestrit family lead Malta deeper into the magical secrets of the Rain Wild Traders. And just outside Bingtown; Amber dreams of relaunching Paragon; the mad liveship . . .