Originally released in 2005, “Pieces of Hate
A story of revenge, Gabriel had been pursuing the demon Temple since the Dark Ages when the demon killed Gabriel’s family and burnt his whole village. Hundreds of years later, Gabriel is still in pursuit. Made long-lived by a sorcerer, Gabriel is almost an immortal himself. But, magic has a cost, and Gabriel, whether he likes it or not is paying for it.
Though this is never said, it is implied. Gabriel’s suffering is both physical and emotional. The long ago hurt is still there and every time he meets Temple, instead of easing the pain, Gabriel adds to his suffering.
The book should have been easy to follow, but its macabre world makes it hard. Tim Lebbon makes his characters hurt and he makes his readers feel that hurt.
So, I will reiterate, “Pieces of Hate (The Assassins Series)
During the Dark Ages, a thing named Temple slaughtered Gabriel’s family. A man with snake eyes charged him to pursue the assassin wherever he may strike next, and destroy him. Gabriel never believed he’d still be following Temple almost a thousand years later.
Because Temple may be a demon, the man with snake eyes cursed Gabriel with a life long enough to hunt him down. Now he has picked up Temple’s scent again. The Caribbean sea is awash with pirate blood, and in such turmoil the outcome of any fight is far from certain.
Free bonus novelette:
Dead Man’s Hand
In the wilderness of the American West, the assassin is set to strike again. Despite his centuries-long curse, Gabriel is still but a man, scarred and bitter. The town of Deadwood has seen many such men… though it’s never seen anything quite like the half-demon known as Temple.
