After a two-year hiatus from adult fantasy, Joe Abercrombie returns with a gripping new tale in “The Devils,” an enchanting foray into a universe that promises to captivate both old and new fans alike. Launching on May 13, this kick-off to a new series marks Abercrombie’s literary evolution—setting aside the well-trodden path of “The First Law” for fresh narratives, characters, and morally ambiguous scenarios. This leap is significant not just for Abercrombie but for the broader realm of epic fantasy where established authors often find themselves tethered to their past works.
Abercrombie has cultivated a dedicated readership that appreciates the nuanced dark humor and visceral battle scenes he so eloquently crafts. The anticipation surrounding “The Devils” underscores not only his reputation but also the fervor for well-executed epic adventures. The fact that Amazon has already placed it among the best sci-fi and fantasy releases of the month is not merely a marketing move—it speaks volumes about the expectations resonating throughout the fantasy community.
Design and Aesthetic: More Than Just Words
Delving into the physicality of “The Devils,” it becomes apparent that this is a book designed to be more than just a vessel of storytelling. The hardcover edition, priced at $27, is a collector’s item in disguise, flaunting a black dust jacket adorned with a distinctly occult skull motif, representing the book’s themes and tonality. This aesthetic isn’t just superficial; it encapsulates the spirit of the story found within.
Opening the book reveals an ornate cover designed to unsettle and intrigue—a pentagram, often associated with the supernatural, nestled in a crimson expanse. Such details suggest that Abercrombie is not only aware of the tropes within the genre but is ready to subvert them in engaging and innovative ways. The inclusion of colored endpaper portraits, a detailed annotated map, and illustrations adds layers of immersion for the reader, inviting them to lose themselves further into a newly constructed world.
The Characters: A Subversion of Archetypes
In “The Devils,” Abercrombie continues his tradition of cleverly reimagining classic fantasy tropes. The ensemble cast not only embodies various fantastical elements but subverts the expectations typically associated with them. The story follows Princess Alexia, a street urchin turned royal, accompanied by an eccentric band of antiheroes. Each character brings their unique flavor to the narrative, creating a vibrant tapestry teeming with complexity.
Brother Diaz represents moral clarity in a cast full of ambivalence; Balthazar, the vampire, leans into his unconventional traits, and an elf who straddles the line between visibility and secrecy adds layers of intrigue. As a reader, you can’t help but be drawn to the complexity of these characters. They reflect the darker aspects of human nature, illustrating that even the noblest intentions can be shrouded in chaos and cruelty—an Abercrombie signature.
The plot itself, an epic quest to escort the unsuspecting heir to her destiny, takes on the feel of a dark road trip adventure. The method of storytelling, with alternating viewpoints, allows us to gain insights into the minds and motivations of these flawed heroes, making their journey both relatable and haunting. Themes of identity, power, and morality simmer beneath the surface, mirroring the human condition through a fantastical lens.
Thematic Depth: An Exploration of Morality and Power
Abercrombie’s narratives are often underscored by profound philosophical inquiries that invite readers to ponder the moral implications of power and choice. In “The Devils,” the characters’ actions highlight the intricate dance between fate and free will. As readers traverse this thrilling landscape alongside Alexia and her companions, they encounter moral dilemmas that ripple through their decisions, propelling the narrative and keeping the stakes ever high.
The grimdark tone serves as a vessel for exploration, prompting readers to question their alignments with the characters. Who are the true antagonists here? Are they merely products of their environment, or do they embody the darker instincts present in all of us? Such questions linger, offering a rich well of dissecting morality within a fantastical framework.
Abercrombie’s whimsical knack for witty dialogue juxtaposed with bloody encounters allows tension to coexist with humor, maintaining a pace that is both exhilarating and thought-provoking. This interplay is crucial; it’s what distinguishes “The Devils” within an already crowded genre—transforming what could simply be a tale of adventure into an exploration of the human psyche.
In the realm of epic fantasy, where many tread familiar paths, Joe Abercrombie continues to navigate uncharted territory with “The Devils.” This novel represents not just a continuation of his literary journey, but a brave bold step towards redefining the conventions of fantasy storytelling. Whether you’re a seasoned Abercrombie follower or a newcomer eager for a robust narrative, “The Devils” promises to stir your imagination and confront your preconceptions, ensuring its place on the shelves of avid readers everywhere.