But at the same time, there is plenty going on in the background when you finally see all that is going on behind the curtain you will have to wonder what you were thinking initially.Īnd the series is fun-Abercrombie’s story has good pacing and the action sequences are excellent. The series appears to be a simple superficial romp. The strength of the series lies in Abercrombie’s ability to subvert expectations. But don’t think that extensive knowledge of fantasy is needed to appreciate these books. Martin, then you will see echoes of all three. The book is like a modern reflection of fantasy, where our own understanding of the tropes and assumptions of the genre are used against us. You may be thinking, “A torturer, a barbarian, an overstuffed nobleman, a warrior woman and a wise old magician? Do they go on a quest or something?! Do they meet some kooky characters along the way? Do they all learn something about themselves and humanity before they overcome the odds to defeat evil?” īelieve me, this is all intentional. The setting and the characters seem to reek of fantasy clichés. Bayaz, First of the Magi, is an old sorcerer who seeks to perfect his art.Īll of the action is set across the backdrop of a war between civilized Adua (reminiscent of Medieval Europe, or possibly just England) Bethod, the new King of the Northmen and the Gurkish Empire, who have shades of the Ottomans.Jezel dan Luthar is a spoiled aristocrat who thinks only of himself, idling his time away with gambling, fencing and womanizing.Ferro Maljinn is an escaped slave who vows revenge for the death of her family.Glotka’s body was ruined by two years of torture, and since his escape has become a torturer himself.Logen Ninefingers is a barbarian warrior who seeks to escape his violent past and even more violent reputation.

This fantasy series features a motley crew of colorful characters:

The three books form the First Law Trilogy. He followed this up with Before They Are Hanged in 2007 and Last Argument of Kings in 2008.

Joe Abercrombie’s inaugural work was The Blade Itself in 2006. Series Overall Rating: 4.25 (is that allowed?) Summary Jack is back! He recently re-read one of his favorite fantasy series, and wanted to share his thoughts on the trilogy as a whole.

The blade itself summary