Dzur — Steven Brust

When you're a short-statured, short-lived human in an Empire of tall, long-lived Dragaerans, you've got to hold on to your wits. Long ago, I made a good living as a captain of the Jhereg, the noble house that runs the rackets in the Imperial city. But love, revolution, betrayal, and revenge ensued -- as they do -- and for years now I've been on the run, just trying to stay a step ahead of the Jhereg. Because after everything that's gone down, they'd kill me without a second thought.

Now I'm back in the city. The rackets I used to run are now under the control of the mysterious "Left Hand of the Jhereg" -- a cabal of women who report to no man. My ex-wife needs my help. My old enemies aren't sure whether they want to kill me, or talk to me and then kill me. A goddess appears to be playing tricks with my memory. And the Great Weapon I'm carrying seems to have plans of its own . . . .

Yes, I know. Shut up, Loiosh.