The First Law Book Series in Order - Complete Reading Guide
Dive into the gritty, razor-sharp world of The First Law, Joe Abercrombie's groundbreaking dark fantasy series that revolutionized the genre with its brutal realism and pitch-black humor. This epic saga spans multiple interconnected books, following a cast of morally complex characters through a world where heroes are myths and survival is the only true victory.
Abercrombie's masterful storytelling deconstructs traditional fantasy tropes, presenting readers with deeply flawed characters who challenge every conventional notion of good and evil. From the tormented Inquisitor Glokta to the savage warrior Logen Ninefingers, each character is a masterpiece of nuanced characterization that will keep you turning pages late into the night.
The complete First Law series includes nine primary novels and multiple companion works, offering readers an immersive journey through a dark, unforgiving fantasy landscape. Whether you're starting with the original trilogy or exploring the standalone novels, each book provides a unique window into Abercrombie's meticulously crafted world.
Perfect for fans of George R.R. Martin and readers who crave complex, morally ambiguous storytelling, The First Law series redefines epic fantasy. With its blend of dark humor, intense action, and psychological depth, these books promise an unforgettable reading experience that will challenge everything you thought you knew about fantasy literature.
Prepare for a journey that's as brutal as it is brilliant.
The Blade Itself
Dive into the gritty, razor-sharp world of Joe Abercrombie's "The Blade Itself," the explosive first installment in the acclaimed The First Law trilogy that's revolutionizing epic fantasy! In a brutal, unforgiving realm where survival is an art form, three extraordinary characters are about to collide in a story that will leave you breathless. A legendary warrior haunted by his past. A cunning nobleman with dangerous ambitions. A magician whose powers are as mysterious as his motives. Each is broken, complex, and utterly compelling—nothing like the traditional heroes you've come to expect. Abercrombie shatters fantasy conventions with his trademark dark humor, visceral action, and morally complex characters. This isn't your typical good-versus-evil tale—it's a raw, unflinching exploration of human nature, power, and survival that will keep you turning pages late into the night. Perfect for fans of George R.R. Martin and readers who crave fantasy with an edge, "The Blade Itself" launches a series that redefines the genre. Prepare for a journey that's as unpredictable as it is addictive.
Published: 2009
Before They Are Hanged
Brace yourself for Joe Abercrombie's electrifying second installment in The First Law series, "Before They Are Hanged" - a dark fantasy epic that redefines heroism and shatters traditional fantasy expectations! In a brutal world where survival is a daily battle, unlikely heroes are forged in the crucible of conflict. Abercrombie's razor-sharp prose cuts deep, following a diverse cast of complex characters on a perilous journey that will test their limits, challenge their beliefs, and push them beyond imagination. War looms on the horizon, and nothing is as it seems. Political intrigue, savage battles, and morally ambiguous characters collide in a breathtaking narrative that will leave readers simultaneously shocked and desperate for more. Each page crackles with tension, unpredictability, and Abercrombie's trademark dark humor. Perfect for fans of gritty, character-driven fantasy who crave stories that defy convention, "Before They Are Hanged" is not just a book - it's an experience. Whether you're new to The First Law series or a returning reader, this novel promises an unforgettable adventure that will challenge everything you thought you knew about epic fantasy. Prepare for a journey like no other.
Published: 2009
Last Argument Of Kings
Brace yourself for the epic conclusion of Joe Abercrombie's groundbreaking The First Law trilogy, where Last Argument of Kings delivers a brutal, razor-sharp finale that will leave fantasy readers breathless! In this dark and subversive fantasy masterpiece, everything you thought you knew about heroism, power, and destiny will be spectacularly challenged. Abercrombie's razor-sharp prose and unflinching character development reach a stunning crescendo, pushing the boundaries of traditional epic fantasy into uncharted territory. Betrayal, warfare, and heart-stopping intrigue collide as our complex characters face their ultimate tests. Each decision could mean salvation or destruction, with stakes higher than ever before. No one is safe, no outcome is certain, and the line between hero and villain blurs into a mesmerizing gray landscape of moral ambiguity. Fans of gritty, intelligent fantasy who crave stories that defy expectations will be utterly captivated. Last Argument of Kings isn't just a book—it's a transformative reading experience that will challenge everything you believe about fantasy storytelling. Prepare for a conclusion that will haunt you long after the final page.
Published: 2009
Best Served Cold
Revenge Has Never Been So Brutal: Joe Abercrombie's "Best Served Cold" Delivers Epic Dark Fantasy Vengeance! In the gritty, unforgiving world of The First Law series, master of grimdark fantasy Joe Abercrombie unleashes a pulse-pounding tale of betrayal, revenge, and ruthless ambition. When a legendary mercenary is brutally double-crossed, she embarks on a merciless quest that will shake the foundations of an entire kingdom. Gathering a team of outcasts, criminals, and desperate souls, our protagonist crafts a revenge plot so intricate and dangerous it will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Abercrombie's razor-sharp prose cuts deeper than a blade, exploring the darkness that lurks within human nature and the terrible price of vengeance. Perfect for fans of morally complex characters and blood-soaked epic fantasy, "Best Served Cold" stands as a standalone novel in the acclaimed First Law world. Whether you're new to the series or a returning reader, this is dark fantasy at its most intense and uncompromising. Prepare for a journey where revenge isn't just a motivation—it's an art form.
Published: 2009
The Heroes
They say Black Dow's killed more men than winter, and clawed his way to the throne of the North up a hill of skulls. The King of the Union, ever a jealous neighbour, is not about to stand smiling by while he claws his way any higher. The orders have been given and the armies are toiling through the northern mud. Thousands of men are converging on a forgotten ring of stones, on a worthless hill, in an unimportant valley, and they've brought a lot of sharpened metal with them. Bremer dan Gorst, disgraced master swordsman, has sworn to reclaim his stolen honour on the battlefield. Obsessed with redemption and addicted to violence, he's far past caring how much blood gets spilled in the attempt. Even if it's his own. Prince Calder isn't interested in honour, and still less in getting himself killed. All he wants is power, and he'll tell any lie, use any trick, and betray any friend to get it. Just as long as he doesn't have to fight for it himself. Curnden Craw, the last honest man in the North, has gained nothing from a life of warfare but swollen knees and frayed nerves. He hardly even cares who wins any more, he just wants to do the right thing. But can he even tell what that is with the world burning down around him? Over three bloody days of battle, the fate of the North will be decided. But with both sides riddled by intrigues, follies, feuds and petty jealousies, it is unlikely to be the noblest hearts, or even the strongest arms that prevail. Three men. One battle. No Heroes.
Published: 2011
Red Country
'Joe Abercrombie is doing some terrific work' George R. R. Martin, author of GAME OF THRONES. They burned her home. They stole her brother and sister. But vengeance is following. Shy South hoped to bury her bloody past and ride away smiling, but she'll have to sharpen up some bad old ways to get her family back, and she's not a woman to flinch from what needs doing. She sets off in pursuit with only a pair of oxen and her cowardly old stepfather Lamb for company. But it turns out Lamb's buried a bloody past of his own, and out in the lawless Far Country, the past never stays buried. Their journey will take them across the barren plains to a frontier town gripped by gold fever, through feud, duel and massacre, high into the unmapped mountains to a reckoning with the Ghosts. Even worse, it will force them into alliance with Nicomo Cosca, infamous soldier of fortune, and his feckless lawyer Temple, two men no one should ever have to trust... The past never stays buried...
Published: 2012
Sharp Ends
The Union army may be full of bastards, but there's only one who thinks he can save the day single-handed when the Gurkish come calling: the incomparable Colonel Sand dan Glokta. Curnden Craw and his dozen are out to recover a mysterious item from beyond the Crinna. Only one small problem: no one seems to know what the item is. Shevedieh, the self-styled best thief in Styria, lurches from disaster to catastrophe alongside her best friend and greatest enemy, Javre, Lioness of Hoskopp. And after years of bloodshed, the idealistic chieftain Bethod is desperate to bring peace to the North. There's only one obstacle left - his own lunatic champion, the most feared man in the North: the Bloody-Nine . . . Sharp Ends combines previously published, award-winning tales with exclusive new short stories. Violence explodes, treachery abounds, and the words are as deadly as the weapons in this rogue's gallery of side-shows, back-stories, and sharp endings from the world of the First Law.
Published: 2016
A Little Hatred
Brace yourself for A Little Hatred, the explosive return to Joe Abercrombie's critically acclaimed First Law universe - a brutal, darkly comic epic that redefines fantasy storytelling! In a world teetering between industrial revolution and ancient magic, a new generation of warriors and rebels emerges, each fighting their own desperate battles against oppression, tradition, and the merciless machinery of change. Abercrombie's trademark razor-sharp prose slices through expectations, delivering a visceral narrative that blends political intrigue, savage combat, and pitch-black humor. As industrial forces clash with magical legacies, young protagonists are thrust into a maelstrom of conflict that will test their courage, morality, and survival. Fans of gritty, character-driven fantasy will be electrified by this masterful installment that continues the legendary First Law saga. Whether you're a longtime reader of the series or discovering Abercrombie's world for the first time, A Little Hatred promises an unforgettable journey through a landscape where hope is a dangerous commodity and survival is never guaranteed. Prepare for a fantasy experience that will leave you breathless and craving more!
Published: 2019
The Trouble With Peace
Brace yourself for Joe Abercrombie's latest masterpiece in the legendary First Law series, "The Trouble With Peace" - a razor-sharp fantasy that proves keeping the peace might be more dangerous than war itself! In this electrifying new installment, Abercrombie returns to his gritty, morally complex world where survival means navigating treacherous political landscapes and confronting impossible choices. With his trademark dark humor and brutal realism, the master of grimdark fantasy delivers another pulse-pounding narrative that will leave readers breathless. Political tensions simmer dangerously close to erupting, and characters you've grown to love must decide whether compromise or conflict will define their futures. Loyalties will be tested, alliances will shatter, and the delicate balance of power hangs by a thread. Fans of the First Law books know Abercrombie doesn't just tell a story - he deconstructs epic fantasy tropes with surgical precision, creating a world that feels brutally authentic and utterly unpredictable. Whether you're a long-time reader or new to the series, "The Trouble With Peace" promises an unforgettable journey into a realm where peace is never simple, and survival is never guaranteed.
Published: 2020
The Wisdom of Crowds
In the brutal, razor-sharp world of Joe Abercrombie's acclaimed First Law series, "The Wisdom of Crowds" delivers another masterful tale of political intrigue, savage action, and dark humor that has made Abercrombie the undisputed master of grimdark fantasy. When revolution erupts and social order crumbles, no one is safe—and everyone has an agenda. As chaos sweeps through the streets, long-simmering tensions will explode into a powder keg of violence, betrayal, and unexpected consequences. Abercrombie's trademark wit and unflinching storytelling explore the dangerous mythology of collective action, where mob mentality can transform ordinary people into something far more terrifying. Fans of George R.R. Martin and readers who love complex, morally ambiguous characters will devour this latest installment in the First Law universe. With pulse-pounding tension, pitch-black comedy, and Abercrombie's unparalleled skill at dissecting human nature, "The Wisdom of Crowds" promises to be an electrifying journey into the heart of social upheaval. Prepare for a story that will challenge everything you think you know about power, revolution, and the thin line between order and anarchy.
Published: 2021
Reading Guide
Joe Abercrombie Books in Order: Complete Reading Guide 2025
Quick Answer: What Order Should I Read Joe Abercrombie Books?
For first-time readers, read Joe Abercrombie's books in this order: Start with The First Law Trilogy (The Blade Itself, Before They Are Hanged, Last Argument of Kings), then the standalone novels (Best Served Cold, The Heroes, Red Country), followed by The Age of Madness Trilogy. This publication order provides the best reading experience.
Who is Joe Abercrombie?
Joe Abercrombie is a British fantasy author born in Lancaster, England in 1974. Often credited as one of the pioneers of "grimdark" fantasy, Abercrombie worked as a film editor before publishing his debut novel, The Blade Itself, in 2006. His First Law World series has sold over 3 million copies worldwide and been translated into 30+ languages. Known for subverting traditional fantasy tropes, morally complex characters, and dark humor, Abercrombie has won multiple awards including the British Fantasy Award.
Complete Joe Abercrombie Reading Order by Series
The First Law Trilogy (Original Series)
The First Law Trilogy introduces readers to the Circle of the World, a brutal fantasy realm where heroes are scarce and moral ambiguity reigns. This foundational trilogy is essential reading for understanding all subsequent First Law World novels.
- The Blade Itself (May 2006) - 515 pages
- Introduces Logen Ninefingers, infamous Northern warrior
- Features Inquisitor Sand dan Glokta, tortured torturer
- Follows Captain Jezal dan Luthar's journey from spoiled nobleman to reluctant hero
- Sets up the conflict between the Union and Gurkish Empire
- Before They Are Hanged (March 2007) - 543 pages
- Continues three parallel storylines across the Circle of the World
- Expands on Bayaz, First of the Magi's mysterious quest
- Develops the siege of Dagoska subplot
- Introduces key supporting characters like Ferro Maljinn
- Last Argument of Kings (March 2008) - 625 pages
- Concludes the original trilogy with shocking revelations
- Features the Battle of Adua
- Subverts major fantasy conventions
- Sets stage for entire First Law World saga
First Law World Standalone Novels
These standalone novels can technically be read independently but are best enjoyed after the original trilogy. Each explores different regions and time periods within the Circle of the World.
- Best Served Cold (June 2009) - 630 pages
- Set 3 years after Last Argument of Kings
- Revenge story featuring Monza Murcatto in Styria
- Introduces Friendly, Castor Morveer, and Nicomo Cosca's return
- Explores themes of vengeance and its consequences
- The Heroes (January 2011) - 530 pages
- Set 6 years after Best Served Cold
- Three-day battle for control of the North
- Features Bremer dan Gorst, Finree dan Brock, and Curnden Craw
- Multiple POV structure showing war from all sides
- Red Country (October 2012) - 560 pages
- Set 9 years after The Heroes
- Western-fantasy hybrid in the Far Country
- Follows Shy South searching for stolen children
- Features returning character Lamb (identity revealed through story)
First Law World Short Story Collection
- Sharp Ends (April 2016) - 368 pages
- Contains 13 short stories spanning entire First Law timeline
- Includes "A Beautiful Bastard" (Glokta origin story)
- Features "Made a Monster" (Bethod's rise to power)
- Best read after completing all standalone novels
The Age of Madness Trilogy
Set 28 years after Red Country, this trilogy explores industrialization, revolution, and a new generation struggling with their parents' legacies.
- A Little Hatred (September 2019) - 471 pages
- Introduces Savine dan Glokta, Leo dan Brock, and Orso
- Industrial revolution comes to the Circle of the World
- Features worker uprisings and political intrigue
- Connects directly to original trilogy characters
- The Trouble With Peace (September 2020) - 501 pages
- Continues revolution storyline
- Develops romance and political subplots
- Features major character revelations
- Escalates conflict between progress and tradition
- The Wisdom of Crowds (September 2021) - 516 pages
- Concludes Age of Madness and possibly entire First Law saga
- Features the Great Change revolution
- Provides closure for multi-generational character arcs
- Ends with significant timeline jump epilogue
Joe Abercrombie's Other Series
The Shattered Sea Trilogy (YA Viking Fantasy)
Written for young adult audiences but enjoyed by adults, this Viking-inspired trilogy features less graphic content than First Law while maintaining Abercrombie's signature style.
- Half a King (July 2014) - 384 pages
- Prince Yarvi's journey from crippled outcast to master manipulator
- Half the World (February 2015) - 400 pages
- Introduces Thorn Bathu and Brand
- Expands scope to multiple kingdoms
- Half a War (July 2015) - 400 pages
- Concludes trilogy with epic battles and revelations
- Features Princess Skara and Raith
The Devils Series (Historical Fantasy)
Abercrombie's newest series set in Renaissance-era inspired fantasy world.
- The Devils (May 2024) - 432 pages
- First in new trilogy
- Features mercenary companies in fantasy Italy analog
- The Tyranny of Faith (January 2025) - 448 pages
- Continues religious and political intrigue
- Untitled Final Book (TBA 2026)
First Law World Reading Order for Different Readers
For Completists (Full Experience)
- The Blade Itself
- Before They Are Hanged
- Last Argument of Kings
- Best Served Cold
- The Heroes
- Red Country
- Sharp Ends
- A Little Hatred
- The Trouble With Peace
- The Wisdom of Crowds
For Time-Conscious Readers (Essential Only)
- The First Law Trilogy (3 books)
- The Age of Madness Trilogy (3 books)
- Skip standalones but miss significant character development
For Standalone Fans
After reading the original trilogy, the three standalone novels can be read in any order, though publication order is recommended for subtle character connections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to read Joe Abercrombie books in order?
Yes, you should read Joe Abercrombie's First Law books in publication order. While the standalone novels are technically independent, they contain major spoilers for previous books and feature returning characters whose arcs span multiple novels.
Can I start with The Age of Madness trilogy?
No, starting with The Age of Madness is not recommended. This trilogy features children and descendants of original trilogy characters, and major plot points depend on understanding events from the First Law Trilogy.
How many books are in the First Law series?
The First Law World contains 10 books total: The First Law Trilogy (3 books), three standalone novels, one short story collection, and The Age of Madness Trilogy (3 books).
Is Joe Abercrombie's Shattered Sea series connected to First Law?
No, The Shattered Sea trilogy is completely separate from the First Law World. It's a Viking-inspired fantasy series that can be read independently.
What should I read after finishing Joe Abercrombie?
Readers who enjoy Abercrombie often like:
- Mark Lawrence (The Broken Empire Trilogy)
- Glen Cook (The Black Company series)
- Brandon Sanderson (for epic fantasy, though less dark)
- Scott Lynch (The Gentleman Bastard series)
- Anna Smith Spark (The Court of Broken Knives)
Are Joe Abercrombie's books appropriate for young readers?
The First Law books contain graphic violence, sexual content, and mature themes. They're intended for adult readers. The Shattered Sea trilogy is young adult friendly with less graphic content.
Will there be more First Law books?
As of 2025, Abercrombie has stated The Wisdom of Crowds concludes the First Law World story, though he hasn't ruled out returning to the setting in the future.
Joe Abercrombie's Writing Style and Themes
What Makes Abercrombie's Fantasy "Grimdark"?
Grimdark fantasy, which Abercrombie helped popularize, features:
- Morally ambiguous protagonists
- Realistic consequences for violence
- Subversion of traditional hero narratives
- Complex political machinations
- Dark humor throughout brutal situations
- No clear good vs. evil dichotomy
Recurring Themes Across Abercrombie's Work
- Power Corrupts: Every character who gains power faces moral compromises
- Cycles of Violence: Revenge and war perpetuate endless suffering
- Change vs. Tradition: Especially prominent in Age of Madness
- Identity and Redemption: Can people truly change their nature?
- Class Struggle: Workers vs. nobility throughout the series
Character Connections Across Books
Understanding character connections enhances the reading experience:
- Logen Ninefingers: Appears in original trilogy and Red Country
- Sand dan Glokta: Original trilogy protagonist, father in Age of Madness
- Bayaz, First of the Magi: Influences events across entire saga
- Nicomo Cosca: Appears in multiple books as mercenary captain
- Black Dow: Minor character becomes major antagonist
- The Dogman: Spans from original trilogy through The Heroes
Awards and Recognition
Joe Abercrombie's accolades include:
- British Fantasy Award for Best Novel (The Heroes, 2012)
- Locus Award for Best Fantasy Novel nominee multiple times
- Gemmell Legend Award shortlist
- New York Times Bestseller (multiple books)
- Sunday Times Bestseller
Where to Start with Joe Abercrombie in 2025
New readers should absolutely begin with The Blade Itself. While it's the slowest-paced book in the series, it establishes crucial worldbuilding, character relationships, and plot threads that pay off throughout the ten-book saga. Attempting to start elsewhere will result in confusion and major spoilers.
The complete First Law World represents approximately 5,000 pages of interconnected storytelling. Budget 3-6 months for the full experience, depending on your reading speed.
Conclusion
Joe Abercrombie's First Law World stands as one of modern fantasy's most important series, revolutionizing the genre with its unflinching examination of power, violence, and human nature. Reading these books in publication order ensures maximum enjoyment and understanding of Abercrombie's complex, morally grey universe where no one emerges untarnished and victory always comes at a price.
Whether you're seeking your next fantasy obsession or exploring grimdark for the first time, Abercrombie's books offer an unforgettable journey through the Circle of the World, just don't expect a happy ending.
Last updated: October 2025 | For more reading guides and book series orders, visit BooksinOrder.org