Ship of Magic

by Robin Hobb · 1998

In the bustling port of Bingtown, merchant families vie for power with the aid of liveships—mysterious vessels carved from wizardwood that awaken to sentient consciousness after generations of sacrifice. When the ancient ship Vivacia finally quickens, Althea Vestrit sees her destiny: to command the ship that has been her family's legacy for centuries. Yet her ambitions clash with family intrigue, a reluctant nephew forced into service, and the ruthless pirate captain Kennit, who covets the liveship’s magical power to dominate the Pirate Isles. As Vivacia awakens, secrets of wizardwood, sea serpents, and a looming slave revolt surface, pulling Althea and those around her into a storm of loyalty, betrayal, and fierce oceanic battles. Robin Hobb weaves a richly layered tale of magic, politics, and love on the high seas, launching the unforgettable Liveship Traders trilogy.