Review of "Before They Are Hanged" by Joe Abercrombie: A Thrilling Continuation of the First Law Trilogy

Review of "Before They Are Hanged" by Joe Abercrombie: A Thrilling Continuation of the First Law Trilogy

Review of "Before They Are Hanged" by Joe Abercrombie: A Thrilling Continuation of the First Law Trilogy

Introduction

"Before They Are Hanged," the second installment in Joe Abercrombie's First Law trilogy, takes the gritty, character-driven fantasy introduced in "The Blade Itself" to new heights. Abercrombie continues to develop his complex, morally ambiguous characters while expanding the scope of the story, introducing new locations, and raising the stakes for all involved. This book maintains the series' trademark dark humor and unflinching violence while delivering a faster-paced, action-packed narrative that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is 51zmtnbfnvl._sy466_.jpg

Plot Summary and Story Progression

In "Before They Are Hanged," the characters from "The Blade Itself" find themselves scattered across the world, each facing their own challenges and trials. Logen Ninefingers joins a dangerous mission to the edge of the world, Sand dan Glokta navigates political intrigue in a foreign city, and Jezal dan Luthar faces the harsh realities of war and leadership.

Abercrombie skillfully weaves these disparate storylines together, creating a cohesive and compelling narrative that builds upon the foundation laid in the first book. The pacing is notably faster than in "The Blade Itself," with more action and suspense throughout.

World-Building and Fantasy Elements

"Before They Are Hanged" expands the world introduced in "The Blade Itself," taking readers to new locations and introducing additional cultures and factions. Abercrombie's world-building is rich and immersive, creating a sense of depth and history that makes the setting feel alive and authentic.

The magic system remains mysterious and subtle, with a greater emphasis on the consequences and costs of using magic. The book also introduces new fantastical elements, such as ancient artifacts and legendary creatures, which add to the sense of wonder and danger in the world.

Characters and Relationships

Abercrombie continues to excel at character development in "Before They Are Hanged," further exploring the depths of his complex and flawed protagonists.

Logen Ninefingers

In this book, Logen's journey takes him far from his comfort zone, forcing him to confront his past and the violent reputation that haunts him. His relationship with his companions, particularly the wizard Bayaz, is tested and developed, revealing new facets of his character.

Sand dan Glokta

Glokta's storyline in "Before They Are Hanged" is one of the most compelling, as he finds himself in a foreign city, navigating a treacherous political landscape. His wit, intelligence, and ruthlessness are put to the test as he seeks to uncover conspiracies and protect the interests of the Union.

Jezal dan Luthar

Jezal's character arc in this book is one of the most significant, as he is thrust into a leadership role he is ill-prepared for. Faced with the realities of war and the weight of responsibility, Jezal begins to question his own beliefs and values, leading to profound personal growth.

Themes and Motifs

"Before They Are Hanged" continues to explore the themes of power, morality, and identity introduced in "The Blade Itself." The book delves deeper into the consequences of violence and the toll it takes on individuals and societies, while also examining the nature of leadership and the difficult choices that come with power.

The novel also further develops the idea of identity and the roles people play, as characters are forced to confront their own self-perceptions and the expectations placed upon them by others.

Writing Style and Prose

Abercrombie's writing in "Before They Are Hanged" is as sharp and engaging as ever, with his trademark wit and dark humor shining through. The prose is gritty and evocative, immersing readers in the world and the experiences of the characters.

The multiple points of view continue to provide a comprehensive and nuanced perspective on the story, allowing readers to witness events from different angles and gain a deeper understanding of the characters' motivations and struggles.

Comparison to Other Fantasy Works

"Before They Are Hanged" solidifies Abercrombie's position as a unique voice in the fantasy genre, offering a gritty, realistic take on a world filled with morally ambiguous characters and complex political machinations. The book's blend of dark humor, intense action, and thought-provoking themes sets it apart from other fantasy series, while still delivering the epic scope and sense of adventure that fans of the genre crave.

Audiobook Experience and Performance

The audiobook version of "Before They Are Hanged," once again narrated by Steven Pacey, is a fantastic way to experience the story. Pacey's performance is consistent and engaging, bringing the characters and world to life with his skilled narration. The audiobook enhances the immersive quality of Abercrombie's writing, making it an excellent choice for fans of the series.

Personal Impact and Lessons Learned

"Before They Are Hanged" is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that challenges readers to consider the complexities of morality, power, and personal growth. Through its unflinching portrayal of violence and its consequences, the book encourages readers to reflect on the impact of their actions and the importance of taking responsibility for one's choices.

The novel also serves as a reminder that growth and change are possible, even for the most flawed and troubled individuals, and that the path to redemption is rarely straightforward or easy.

Conclusion

"Before They Are Hanged" is a stunning continuation of the First Law trilogy, building upon the foundation laid in "The Blade Itself" and expanding the scope of the story in thrilling and unexpected ways. With its fast-paced plot, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes, this book is a must-read for fans of dark, gritty fantasy.

Abercrombie's masterful storytelling and unique voice shine through in this novel, cementing his place as one of the most exciting and innovative authors in the genre. "Before They Are Hanged" sets the stage for an epic conclusion to the trilogy, leaving readers eager to discover the fate of their favorite characters and the world they inhabit.

Back to blog