Joe Abercrombie
Joe Abercrombie is a British fantasy writer and film editor. He is best known for his series 'The First Law' and its standalone novels set in the same world. His work is characterized by a dark and gritty style, complex characters, and a subversion of traditional fantasy tropes.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. A Little Hatred
In a gritty fantasy realm embroiled with industrial revolution and social unrest, the lives of several complex characters intertwine as they navigate a world of escalating violence and power struggles. The novel explores themes of vengeance, ambition, and the corrosive effects of hatred through the eyes of a diverse cast, including a vengeful warrior, an enterprising young noblewoman, and a cunning war hero. As ancient magics fade against the backdrop of emerging technologies, these individuals must adapt to the changing tides of power or be swept away by the relentless currents of progress and conflict.
The 12725th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
2. The Trouble With Peace
In this gripping fantasy sequel, the realm struggles with the aftermath of a hard-won war, where the fragile peace is threatened by the ambitions and insecurities of the various power players. The central characters, each with their own intricate plots and personal demons, navigate a complex political landscape where rebellion brews, alliances shift, and betrayal lurks at every corner. As the tension escalates, the line between hero and villain blurs, raising profound questions about power, justice, and the true cost of peace in a world where the lust for control often trumps the common good.
The 14078th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
3. The Wisdom Of Crowds
The book explores the idea that large groups of people are collectively smarter than individual experts when it comes to problem-solving, decision-making, innovation, and predicting outcomes. The author delves into various case studies and anecdotes to illustrate how the aggregation of information in groups results in decisions that are often better than those made by any single member of the group. The text also discusses the conditions necessary for crowd wisdom to prevail, such as diversity of opinion, independence of members from one another, decentralization, and a method for aggregating opinions. The insights provided challenge the conventional wisdom that only experts can provide solutions to complex problems and instead highlight the potential of harnessing the collective intelligence of the masses.
The 14138th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
4. The Blade Itself
The First Law: Book One
In a grim fantasy world where war looms and politics are cutthroat, a crippled torturer with a complicated past, a vain and self-absorbed swordsman, and a fierce but inexperienced young woman navigate their personal ambitions and struggles for power. As their paths intertwine, they are drawn into a dangerous game orchestrated by a cunning and secretive mage. Together, they must confront their own demons and decide what they're willing to sacrifice for a chance at glory or redemption, all while the threat of an ancient evil and an impending conflict casts a dark shadow over the land.
The 14983rd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
5. Red Country
In this gritty fantasy novel, a young woman named Shy South embarks on a perilous journey across a rugged, lawless frontier to rescue her kidnapped siblings. Accompanied by her stepfather Lamb, who harbors a violent past, Shy navigates a world filled with treacherous outlaws, mercenaries, and settlers driven by greed and desperation. As they traverse the harsh landscape, Shy confronts her own inner demons and the brutal realities of survival, while uncovering secrets about Lamb's history that challenge her understanding of justice and family. The story weaves themes of redemption, vengeance, and the blurred lines between heroism and villainy in a land where the only certainty is conflict.
The 17119th Greatest Book of All Time -
6. The Heroes
A First Law Novel
Set in a gritty, war-torn world, the story unfolds over three days of brutal conflict between the Union and the Northmen, focusing on a strategic hill known as the Heroes. The narrative weaves together the perspectives of various characters, including a weary veteran, an ambitious officer, and a young warrior seeking glory, each grappling with their own motivations and moral dilemmas. As the battle rages, the characters confront the harsh realities of war, revealing the futility and chaos that underpin their struggles for power and survival. Through dark humor and vivid action, the story explores themes of honor, leadership, and the human cost of warfare.
The 17119th Greatest Book of All Time -
7. Last Argument Of Kings
In the gripping conclusion of a dark fantasy trilogy, the story weaves together the fates of several complex characters as they navigate a world on the brink of chaos. The Union faces internal strife and external threats, while the enigmatic wizard Bayaz manipulates events to his advantage. Jezal dan Luthar grapples with unexpected responsibilities, Logen Ninefingers confronts his violent past, and Glokta maneuvers through political intrigue. As alliances shift and battles rage, the characters must confront their own demons and make choices that will shape the future of their world, culminating in a dramatic and thought-provoking finale.
The 17119th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
8. Before They Are Hanged
In this gripping fantasy sequel, the story follows three main narratives: the journey of the barbarian Logen Ninefingers and his companions as they venture into the mysterious and perilous Old Empire; the political intrigue and power struggles faced by Inquisitor Glokta as he navigates the treacherous waters of the Union's capital; and the trials of Jezal dan Luthar, who is forced to confront his own weaknesses and grow beyond his privileged upbringing. As war looms and alliances shift, each character must confront their own demons and make difficult choices that will shape the fate of their world.
The 17119th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
9. The First Law Trilogy
Set in a gritty, war-torn world, the story follows a diverse cast of characters, including a crippled torturer, a nobleman turned soldier, and a barbarian warrior, as they navigate political intrigue, personal vendettas, and brutal battles. As the Union faces threats from the Gurkish Empire and internal corruption, these unlikely heroes are drawn into a complex web of alliances and betrayals orchestrated by a powerful wizard with his own hidden agenda. The trilogy explores themes of power, morality, and the blurred lines between good and evil, culminating in a series of unexpected twists and morally ambiguous resolutions.
The 17119th Greatest Book of All Time -
10. The Great Leveller
Concluding the Age of Madness Trilogy
The book is a gripping fantasy novel set in a world of political intrigue, war, and personal vendettas. It follows a diverse cast of characters, each with their own ambitions and moral complexities, as they navigate a landscape of shifting alliances and brutal conflicts. Themes of power, revenge, and survival are explored through intense action sequences and sharp dialogue, creating a darkly compelling narrative that challenges the boundaries between heroism and villainy.
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11. Sharp Ends
Stories from the World of the First Law
The book is a collection of thirteen short stories set in a gritty, dark fantasy world, exploring the lives of various characters from different walks of life. These tales delve into themes of violence, betrayal, and survival, often featuring morally ambiguous characters who navigate treacherous situations. The stories are interconnected, providing glimpses into the broader world and events, while highlighting the harsh realities and complexities of human nature. With a blend of humor and brutality, the narratives offer a deeper understanding of the world and its inhabitants, enriching the overarching saga with new perspectives and insights.
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12. Half A War
Shattered Sea Book 3
In this gripping conclusion to the trilogy, the story follows Princess Skara as she navigates the treacherous world of politics and warfare after her grandfather's kingdom falls. Alongside allies like Father Yarvi and the warrior Raith, Skara must learn to wield power and influence to unite the fractured nations against a common enemy. As alliances shift and betrayals unfold, the characters face moral dilemmas and personal sacrifices, culminating in a climactic battle that tests their courage and resolve. The narrative weaves themes of loyalty, vengeance, and the harsh realities of leadership, delivering a compelling and action-packed finale.
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13. Half The World
Shattered Sea
In a world of political intrigue and brutal warfare, a young warrior named Thorn Bathu seeks to avenge her father's death and prove her worth in a male-dominated society. Alongside Brand, a fellow warrior with a strong moral compass, and Father Yarvi, a cunning minister with his own hidden agenda, Thorn embarks on a perilous journey across treacherous lands. As they navigate alliances and betrayals, Thorn discovers her own strength and the complexities of loyalty and honor. The story explores themes of identity, resilience, and the harsh realities of a world divided by power and ambition.
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14. Half A King
Shattered Sea
In a harsh, Viking-inspired world, a young, physically disabled prince named Yarvi unexpectedly ascends to the throne after the murder of his father and brother. Betrayed and left for dead, Yarvi is thrust into a brutal journey of survival and revenge. As he navigates treacherous alliances and battles both external foes and his own insecurities, Yarvi's cunning and determination are tested. Along the way, he gathers a diverse group of allies, each with their own motives, and learns the true meaning of leadership and strength beyond physical prowess.
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15. Best Served Cold
Set in a gritty, war-torn world, the story follows Monza Murcatto, a betrayed mercenary leader seeking vengeance against those who wronged her. After surviving an assassination attempt orchestrated by her employer, she embarks on a bloody quest for revenge, assembling a diverse and morally ambiguous crew to aid her mission. As Monza navigates a landscape rife with political intrigue and brutal violence, she confronts her own thirst for retribution and the personal cost of her relentless pursuit. The narrative explores themes of betrayal, loyalty, and the cyclical nature of violence, all set against a backdrop of dark humor and complex character dynamics.
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16. The Preservation Of Rural England,
The book delves into the intricate balance between development and conservation in the English countryside, exploring the historical and contemporary challenges faced in preserving rural landscapes. It highlights the tension between economic growth and environmental stewardship, examining the roles of policy, community action, and individual responsibility in maintaining the natural beauty and cultural heritage of rural England. Through a series of case studies and expert insights, the narrative underscores the importance of sustainable practices and the need for a collective effort to safeguard these cherished landscapes for future generations.
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17. Heldenklingen
Set in a world where the echoes of war reverberate through every corner, this gripping tale follows a diverse cast of characters as they navigate the treacherous landscape of political intrigue and personal vendettas. With alliances shifting like sand and the specter of betrayal looming large, each character must confront their own demons and decide what they are willing to sacrifice for power, revenge, or redemption. As the stakes rise and the lines between friend and foe blur, the narrative weaves a complex tapestry of ambition, loyalty, and the relentless pursuit of one's own destiny.
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18. Königsklingen
In a world where alliances are fragile and power is the ultimate prize, the story unfolds with a gripping blend of political intrigue and brutal warfare. The narrative follows a diverse cast of characters, each driven by their own ambitions and haunted by past betrayals, as they navigate a landscape rife with danger and deception. As tensions rise and loyalties are tested, the lines between friend and foe blur, leading to a climactic confrontation that will determine the fate of kingdoms. With a masterful blend of dark humor and relentless action, the tale explores themes of honor, vengeance, and the relentless pursuit of power.
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19. Blutklingen
A Shattered Sea Novel
Set in a gritty, war-torn world, the story follows a young protagonist who is thrust into a brutal journey of survival and self-discovery. As they navigate through treacherous landscapes and face formidable foes, they grapple with the harsh realities of power, betrayal, and the thin line between heroism and villainy. With a cast of morally complex characters, the narrative explores themes of loyalty, vengeance, and the cost of ambition, all while delivering a thrilling blend of action and dark humor.
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20. The Great Change
Set in a world teetering on the brink of transformation, this gripping narrative follows a diverse cast of characters as they navigate the tumultuous shifts in power and society. As old alliances crumble and new ones form, each individual must confront their own moral compass and the consequences of their choices. With a blend of political intrigue, personal vendettas, and unexpected alliances, the story explores themes of loyalty, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of change in a world where nothing is as it seems.
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21. The Shattered Sea Trilogy
Set in a harsh, Viking-flavored world strewn with the relics of a lost civilization, this trilogy follows a betrayed prince with a withered hand who survives slavery to become a master of statecraft, a fierce young warrior striving for glory in a society that scorns her, and a conflicted soldier seeking honor as their paths converge through perilous voyages, courtly intrigue, and escalating war. Their intertwined journeys explore the price of power, the ambiguity of heroism, and the value of wit over brute force, while buried secrets and the ambitions of a rising High King threaten to reshape the balance of the Shattered Sea.