Dive into our in-depth review of Joe Abercrombie’s The Devil’s – a darkly humorous fantasy epic that redefines the genre. Discover why this book is a must-read for fans of grimdark fiction.
Introduction to The Devil’s Book Review
Joe Abercrombie, the acclaimed author of the First Law trilogy, has long been a titan in the grimdark fantasy genre, known for his gritty realism, complex characters, and razor-sharp wit. With The Devil’s, released on May 6, 2025, Abercrombie ventures into a new fantasy world, blending horror, humor, and high-stakes adventure. This novel, the first in a new series, has already been hailed as one of his finest works, with reviewers calling it “devilishly brilliant” and “the best fantasy book of the year.” In this comprehensive The Devil’s book review, we’ll explore its plot, characters, themes, narrative style, strengths, weaknesses, and reader reactions, offering insights into why this book is a must-read for fantasy enthusiasts.
Whether you’re a longtime Abercrombie fan or new to his work, The Devil’s promises a wild ride through a world of monsters, political intrigue, and irreverent humor. Let’s dive into what makes this novel so special and why it deserves a spot on your bookshelf.
Plot Summary of The Devil’s
The Devil’s is set in an alternate medieval Europe, a world teetering on the brink of chaos. Elves lurk at the borders, hungry for human flesh, while a religious schism divides the Eastern and Western Churches. Amidst this turmoil, Brother Diaz, a humble monk, is summoned to the Sacred City, expecting a prestigious assignment. Instead, he’s tasked with leading the Chapel of Holy Expediency, a ragtag group of outcasts including a vampire, a werewolf, a necromancer, an ex-pirate, an undead knight, and a vanishing elf. Their mission: escort Alex, a young thief, across the continent to claim the Serpent Throne of Troy, a move orchestrated by Pope Benedicta the First to unite the sundered church and consolidate power against the looming elvish threat.
The journey is fraught with peril, from battles with monstrous creatures to clashes with Eudoxia’s sons, who seek to eliminate Alex to secure the throne for themselves. The plot is a whirlwind of action, political intrigue, and dark humor, with Abercrombie masterfully balancing high-stakes drama with moments of absurdity. As the group navigates this hellish quest, they confront external dangers and their own inner demons, making The Devil’s a gripping tale of survival and redemption.
Character Analysis in The Devil’s Book Review
The heart of The Devil’s lies in its vibrant cast of characters, each brought to life with Abercrombie’s signature depth and nuance. Here’s a closer look at the key players:
- Brother Diaz: The reluctant leader, Diaz is a monk out of his depth, initially portrayed as pitiful and unprepared. His growth into a determined, if still flawed, leader is both humorous and inspiring. His internal struggles, as seen in the quote, “That’s how it always begins. The just cause. The good fight. Each time, I tell myself it will be different. But for me, as the fight wears on, the good wears off. Before I know it . . . I’ve made myself a devil,” highlight his moral complexity.
- Alex: The thief destined for the throne, Alex is a master of deception and survival. Her sharp wit and troubled past make her a compelling protagonist, as evidenced by the quote: “The brave ones are just good at pretending, and pretending’s just lying by another name, and when it came to lying, Alex was up there with the best. Ask anyone.” Her journey from outcast to potential ruler is a central thread of the narrative.
- The Misfits: The supporting cast is a highlight, with each member bringing unique flair. The vampire is ancient and weary, burdened by immortality; the werewolf is impulsive and primal; the necromancer is arrogant and power-hungry. Their interactions are a source of both humor and tension, creating a dynamic ensemble that drives the story forward.
Abercrombie’s ability to craft flawed, relatable characters ensures that readers are invested in their fates, making every triumph and setback resonate deeply.
Themes and Motifs in The Devil’s
The Devil’s is rich with themes that elevate it beyond a simple adventure tale. At its core is the exploration of moral ambiguity, a hallmark of Abercrombie’s work. The characters are neither purely heroic nor villainous, challenging readers to question traditional notions of good and evil. The Chapel of Holy Expediency, composed of “monsters,” is tasked with a righteous mission, blurring the lines between hero and villain.
Another key theme is the absurdity of war and power struggles. The religious schism and political machinations underscore the futility of conflict, with Abercrombie using humor to highlight the ridiculousness of these struggles. The quote, “No matter how you fight, you can’t beat time. It lays low every empire, topples every tyrant,” encapsulates this fatalistic view, reminding readers of the transient nature of power.
The novel also delves into the universal experience of fear and the facade of bravery. As one character notes, “Everyone’s scared all the time. That’s the thing you’ve got to tell yourself.” This theme adds emotional depth, making the characters’ struggles relatable despite their fantastical nature.
Language and Narrative Style in The Devil’s Book Review
Abercrombie’s writing in The Devil’s is a masterclass in balancing grit and wit. His prose is vivid and immersive, with sharp dialogue that crackles with humor and tension. Lines like, “Whoever would’ve thought, a few months ago, when he was diligently reviewing the monastery’s accounts, that slathered with gore would be a phrase he routinely employed?” showcase his ability to blend absurdity with visceral imagery.
The narrative style is fast-paced, with multiple perspectives that keep the story dynamic and unpredictable. Abercrombie seamlessly integrates classic horror tropes—vampires, werewolves, necromancers—into a fantasy setting that feels both familiar and alien, drawing on an alternate medieval Europe with locations like Venice and Troy reimagined in a fantastical context. This blend of historical and supernatural elements creates a rich, immersive world that draws readers in from the first page.
Strengths and Weaknesses of The Devil’s
The Devil’s boasts numerous strengths that make it a standout in Abercrombie’s oeuvre:
- Character Development: Each character is fully realized, with distinct voices and arcs that make them memorable and relatable.
- Pacing and Action: The plot moves at a breakneck pace, with action sequences that are both thrilling and well-choreographed.
- World-Building: The alternate medieval Europe is richly detailed, providing a believable backdrop for the story.
- Humor: Reviewers have called it Abercrombie’s funniest book yet, with witty banter and absurd situations providing levity amidst the darkness.
However, the novel is not without its flaws. Some readers have noted that the heavy emphasis on comedy can overshadow the more serious themes, particularly the horror elements. One Goodreads reviewer expressed disappointment, stating, “Disappointed, leaned too heavily into comedy.” While this is a minor criticism, it suggests that readers expecting a darker, more horror-focused tale might find the tone jarring.
Reader Impressions from The Devil’s Book Review
The Devil’s has garnered widespread acclaim on platforms like Goodreads. Reviewers have praised its humor, action, and character development, with many calling it a standout fantasy novel of 2025. Petrik, a prominent reviewer, declared it “the best fantasy book I’ve read this year,” while Mike S Book Reviews named it their “book of the year for 2025” in a video review. Authors like Tamsyn Muir have also lauded it, describing it as “incredibly fun, incredibly action-packed and, by the end, incredibly affecting” (Barnes & Noble).
However, not all feedback is universally positive. Some readers felt the comedic tone detracted from the story’s darker elements, with one reviewer noting, “Disappointed, leaned too heavily into comedy” (Goodreads). Despite these critiques, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with ratings averaging around 4.5 stars, reflecting its broad appeal.
Personal Insights on The Devil’s
The Devil’s is a bold and refreshing addition to the fantasy genre, showcasing Abercrombie’s ability to blend humor, horror, and heart. The exploration of fear and bravery, encapsulated in quotes like “Everyone’s scared all the time,” resonates deeply, highlighting the universal nature of human vulnerability. The characters’ flaws and struggles make them relatable, even in a world filled with monsters and magic.
The novel’s use of humor to tackle serious themes is particularly effective, offering a lens through which to examine the absurdity of power struggles and the complexity of morality. While the comedic tone may not resonate with all readers, it adds a unique flavor to the grimdark genre, setting The Devil’s apart from more traditional fantasy epics. For fans of Abercrombie’s gritty realism and newcomers seeking a fresh take on fantasy, this book is a compelling and entertaining read.
Conclusion of The Devil’s Book Review
The Devil’s by Joe Abercrombie is a triumphant return to the fantasy genre, blending dark humor, thrilling action, and profound themes into a cohesive and captivating narrative. Its richly developed characters, immersive world, and sharp wit make it a standout novel, despite minor criticisms about its comedic tone. For fans of grimdark fantasy or anyone looking for a fresh, irreverent take on the genre, The Devil’s is an unmissable adventure.
Don’t miss out on this devilishly brilliant tale. Grab your copy of The Devil’s from Barnes & Noble or Macmillan and join Brother Diaz and his band of misfits on their unforgettable journey. Whether you’re laughing at their banter or gripping the pages during their battles, this book will leave you eager for the next installment.
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