ROYAL ASSASSIN (1997) by Michael Whelan, cover for the second book in the Farseer Trilogy by Robin Hobb.

We’ve gotten a number of requests for this piece over the years. And we get just as many questions about why Michael only illustrated two covers in this popular series. You’ll see clues to that in the accompanying photos.

Even though Fitz wields an axe in the book, the sales department wanted a sword on the cover. The change was based solely on marketability, and for an artist who has always prided himself on accuracy to the author’s words, that created an artistic dilemma.

In the end, Michael made the requested change but opted not to return for the last installment of the trilogy. It’s a shame because these are excellent books.

Source: michaelwhelan.com

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