Joe Abercrombie, one of the most influential voices in contemporary fantasy, is back with his latest epic, The Devils. The anticipation surrounding this new release is palpable, and rightly so; Abercrombie is returning to the literary scene with a flourish after a two-year break since his last masterpiece, The Wisdom of Crowds. Not only does The Devils mark the beginning of a fresh saga, but it is also the author’s first foray into adult fantasy outside of his critically acclaimed First Law series, which has rightfully earned Abercrombie a devoted following. The very fact that a new Abercrombie book hits the shelves is akin to a holiday for fantasy enthusiasts, and this release promises to deliver on all fronts.
A Journey Into the Unknown
Set in an intricately woven fictional universe reminiscent of medieval Europe, The Devils embarks on a fresh journey filled with unexpected heroes and antiheroes. Abercrombie is known for mastering the nuance of morally ambiguous characters, and this novel is no exception. Following the journey of a street-savvy young woman named Alex, who discovers her royal lineage, the narrative is as rich in wit as it is in bloody adventure. The novel features an eclectic band of companions: a morally conscious Brother Diaz, a peculiar vampire, an elusive elf, a master of corpse magic, an immortal knight, and a werewolf with a surprising tenderness. This mix of characters not only broadens the narrative scope but also hints at deeper, thematic explorations of identity, loyalty, and the often murky waters of morality.
A Book That Looks as Good as It Reads
The aesthetic appeal of The Devils cannot be understated. Not just a narrative triumph, the book is a visual delight as well. Its black dust jacket adorned with a skull and burning letters instantly evokes a sense of the occult that is normally reserved for collectible editions. Underneath, the ornate red cover with a pentagram sets the tone for the thrilling adventure that awaits. A thoughtful design choice by Tor Books, the inclusion of full-color portraits and an annotated map serves to enrich the reader’s experience, making it more than a book—it’s an art piece. This attention to detail elevates the reading experience, demonstrating Abercrombie’s commitment not just to storytelling, but to the reader’s sensory journey through the pages.
Fan Anticipation and Market Response
Even before its release, The Devils has made waves in the literary world, featured prominently by Amazon among the best in sci-fi and fantasy this month. The hardcover edition, priced at $27, is quickly climbing the bestseller charts, signaling not just interest but a fervent enthusiasm from readers who have been yearning for Abercrombie’s signature blend of dark humor and thrilling action. The impending success of the novel is a testament to the author’s strong fanbase developed over nearly two decades, starting with his debut in The Blade Itself in 2006. In the current landscape of fantasy literature, a new Abercrombie novel is an event—and The Devils is no exception.
An Expansive Universe to Explore
Abercrombie’s reputation as a master of grimdark fantasy has captured readers’ imaginations, but his bibliography extends beyond The First Law universe. With narratives like The Shattered Sea trilogy aimed at young adults, Abercrombie showcases his versatility. Nonetheless, for loyal fans of the First Law series, the allure of The Devils lies in its potential to expand an already rich universe made renowned by its deeply flawed characters and intricate plotlines. This hopeful blending of familiar elements with new adventures creates an engaging land for readers to traverse, filled with both nostalgia and novelty.
The Generational Appeal of Abercrombie’s Works
Abercrombie’s work deftly combines humor with realism, creating a space where dark themes are met with levity—a balance that appeals to diverse demographics. This generational appeal is perhaps one of the strongest elements of his writing; whether you’re a seasoned reader of grimdark classics or just venturing into the genre, there’s something visceral and relatable in Abercrombie’s characters. His world-building intricacies alongside razor-sharp humor create an experience that feels both richly detailed and oddly familiar, making The Devils not just a novel, but a cultural conversation starter.
In this age of high fantasy, where tropes are ubiquitous, Abercrombie stands out for his ability to flip conventions on their heads, crafting stories where the line between good and evil is intricately blurred. With The Devils, he is not just returning to his readers; he is inviting them to explore the uncharted territories of his imagination. The staggering combination of rich storytelling and aesthetic delight encapsulates what readers have come to love about Abercrombie. As we dive into this new adventure, one cannot help but feel the excitement that only a master of the craft can inspire.