I’ve been fascinated by assassins ever since learning about their medieval origins during the Crusades. These interesting fellows were led by the mysterious “Old Man in the Mountain” and wreaked mayhem because of how they infiltrated places of trust. Assassins are the secretive warriors of death, trained with uncanny fighting skills and the various weaknesses of the human body and mind. Throughout my novels, these characters are woven into the storylines with new names such as Sleepwalkers, the Kishion, and most currently, Poisoners. Assassins can get into places that are all but impossible. They are deadly with weapons, with just their hands, or with a little crushed powder. They infiltrate enemy lairs and use disguises to trick the senses.
But what I really find fascinating are novels that use them to help out the good guys. They can be the main hero or sometimes just a supporting role. They are often conflicted because of the beauty they see in life and how often they participate in the release of death. They are a spice to the stew that is savory and interesting to me. These are some of my favorites.