The Riyria tales are actually two series: The Riyria Revelations (a completed six-book series that is released in three volumes, and The Riyria Chronicles, which are largely standalone tales). These books feature Royce Melborn (a cynical ex-assassin) and Hadrian Blackwater (an optimistic ex-mercenary). The completed series (Revelations) starts out simply and mysteries and character backgrounds are built in layers leading to a very satisfying conclusion. The Chronicle tales were written due to overwhelming demand by readers who wanted to spend more time with two of their favorite rogues. The first two books (The Crown Tower and The Rose and Thorn) take place 10 years before the events of Revelations and tell the tale of how those two very different men founded their thrives-for-hire enterprise. Other tales in the series are standalone adventures.