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Jimmy and the Crawler
207 pages
A fast-paced, cloak-and-dagger fantasy adventure where a beloved rogue navigates the shadowy politics of the criminal underworld.
What it feels like
Reading this novella feels like slipping back into a comfortable, shadowy tavern with an old friend. It delivers a brisk, cloak-and-dagger adventure that balances the nostalgic charm of classic heroic fantasy with the tense, street-level grit of a thieves' guild rivalry. The narrative moves with the swift, practiced grace of its rogue protagonist, prioritizing snappy banter, clever disguises, and rapid-fire action over dense, sprawling worldbuilding. There is a distinct energy to the shadowy alleys and political intrigue, keeping the mood suspenseful but never overwhelmingly dark. It is a perfect, bite-sized treat for readers who delight in clever tricksters, loyal companions, and the satisfying thrill of watching a master thief outwit a dangerous criminal empire.
- Mood
- shadowy
- energetic
- cloak-and-dagger
- Tone
- adventurous
- nostalgic
- suspenseful
- wry
- Pace
- brisk
- Themes
- underworld intrigue · loyalty and duty · camaraderie · outgrowing one's past
- The writing
- Straightforward and action-oriented, relying on snappy dialogue and swift pacing rather than dense worldbuilding.
- The arc
- Begins with tense, street-level mystery and builds to a satisfying, high-stakes confrontation that tests old loyalties.
- Who it's for
- Readers who love classic heroic fantasy centered on clever rogues, thieves' guilds, and fast-paced espionage.
Content notes
- fantasy violence
- criminal underworld dynamics
About the book
A fantastic new novella from the master of magic and adventure. Best selling author Raymond E. Feist returns to the city of Krondor and one of his most loved characters, Jimmy the Hand.
The Crawler: a name whispered in fear...
In the crime-ridden back alleys of Krondor a rival gang has sprung up to threaten the Upright Man’s Mockers. Does the Crawler control the rival gang? Where does his power come from? And does it threaten the peace of the Kingdom?
James, personal squire to Prince Arutha of Krondor, but in the underworld known as the thief and trickster Jimmy the Hand, must travel to Kesh in disguise. There, working with William, lieutenant of the prince’s household guard and son of the magician Pug, and Jazhara, niece to the Keshian lord Hazara-Khan, he must attempt to unmask the mysterious Crawler and rid Krondor of his influence.
Description from Open Library.
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