Last Argument of Kings is damn near perfect! Thinking back through it, there are so many twists, turns and amazing moments that I can’t believe they were all squeezed into one book. While the battles are epic, my favorite part of the book is the last 100 pages where we’re dealing with the fall out. Such a heartbreaking yet satisfying ending for me.
I'm so glad you've been making some First Law content, Mike. It's always good to be reminded of one of my favorite fantasy series of all time and why I love it.
Definitely! When I tell people about this trilogy, I tell them it is much like the LOTR in that you can't read one or two books, it's meant to be read as one book, split into three parts. I'm wondering if your books will be similar Philip? ;)
The ending was amazing just like the beginning. Started off with a bang and ended with a bang and I thought it was very fitting. Probably one of my favorite endings.
One character came full circle, one character got everything he ever wanted and more and ended up miserable, and one character things actually ended pretty good for.
This trilogy is sooooo good, I loved the ending and it felt consistent with the style of the books. Also we need to come up with a different term for the ‘standalone’ books. That suggests the books are separate and could be skipped. To me First Law is a 10 book series and is best read that way (even skipping Sharp Ends means missing out on crucial elements imo).
I loved the ending! Left me thirsty for more. I read the trilogy last year and just couldn't put it down. I read the standalones at the start of this year and am just finishing up Wisdom of crowds now. It's going to be sad to leave that world behind!
This is still my favorite First Law book. There is just so many good things to say about it. It subverted my expectations and just threw some major twists at you. Plus, Abercrombie’s writing is so good. The way he uses repetition and the way he completed each character arc is just pure genius. This book was so heartbreaking, but in the best of ways.
Glokta is hands down my favorite character in this trilogy. I think the first two are great step up for a fantastic ending to a trilogy. Great review as always Mike!
Not only my favorite The First Law book, but the one i hold in the highest regard in the entire genre of fantasy. Nothing i ever read afterward, be it in The First Law world or otherwise, has even come close to beating this absolute marvel of a novel. To some extent it even ruined my experience of the standalone books, as it set the bar so high it might even be touching the stars at this very moment.
Just coming to say that the stand alone novels are superb! I don't think you can properly appreciate some of the character growth/changes that you see in Age of Madness unless you read them. I loved the ending of Last Argument of Kings. It is unforgettable.
The moment I finished this book, I was like "It's good, but." I didn't know what the "but" was: I just needed to digest that ending. A few days later I realised that it was pure genius.
Yeah, I was underwhelmed when I first read it because I was still kind of into the happier ending fantasy so I was let down. But now I love it, it's pretty much the perfect book.
i just finished the book literally, processing it. I want more lol... I feel like the book just started as it ended. The 3 combined is kind of a one book on it's own. Now that certain characters end up in certain positions, what now? I must know
Chef's kiss to this last book. Stand out! And listening to it is even better than reading it tbh. I'm on my 3rd listen to all 9 books...on The Heroes right now.
loved this trilogy, im a plot guy so the first book was a struggle until i realised i loved the characters then i was hooked. hope to continue with the stand alones this year
I looooved this book. I couldn't get enough of Glokta and Jezal. For Logen, I can't say I was too excited to read about his journey... But as you say, the ending of this book leaves you with so much questions. In a sense, I couldn't believe this was an ending at all. You need moreeee! I'll get to the next books soon.
Mike i just have to say thank you SO MUCH! your recommendation got me to grab the first law trilogy and ive been thrilled with them so far, im 1/3 of the way through argument of kings and i cant put the book down haha :) im a die hard fan of ASOIAF , but even so! joe's grim dark world is probably my second fav dark fantasy setting. i wish you all the best this year sir! MAY YOUR CUP STAY FULL AND YOUR SWORD STAY SHARP MY FRIEND!
Funny you mentioned reading it before bed, because that's exactly how I finished it, reading well past 2 AM last night! I kept close track of the fact I was only 40--30--20 pages from the end, and a "satisfying" conclusion seemed to be no where in sight. Despite wanting more for the characters I'd grown to love, I can't say that I'd change any of their outcomes. The concept of fairness and people getting what they deserve was sprinkled throughout the series quite generously, so I suspected things might not end so traditionally, but yeesh, I didn't expect that!
I have a unique reading experience for this series, as my dad got me to read The Heroes first since it was the only we had, and I was just hooked from the very first chapter. So reading the First Law trilogy always felt like a prequel to me, few spoilers about a few of the character fates aside, it was really an awesome ride.
Just finished this one for the first time today after I read that last page I put the book down took a long sigh and said “Say one thing about Logen Ninefingers say he’s lucky” weather he comes back in other books or not love the way the trilogy ended
This is the only series that I wish I could read it again for the first time. I was at work, on my lunch break, when I finished Kings and I did NOT want to go back to work. It was a LONG afternoon!
Just finished the series a few days ago for the second time, and it was better the second time around. There is so much more to this series than I realized. Aside from the fantastic story and characters, is the idea of what is power, and how it can shape what we perceive what is right and wrong. Sometimes I hear complaints about the ending, but after the second read through, it couldn't have ended any other way. This series will also hit you in the feels. Especially the Northmen story arcs. Damn near perfect trilogy.
Logen is his own worst enemy. If only he could get over the idea that he has to constantly fight and threaten his own he might actually have been a king that they followed and respected. Even Shivers would have gained some respect for him ... in fact doesn't stab him in the back in the end regardless of his hatred for the bloody nine. Glokta really had an ending as good and perfect as could be. He got the second hottest / third girl in the story (I imagine Terez as the most beautiful, followed by dan Eider, who I imagined sorta like Ardee, slightly bronze skin, only far more elegant due to an aristocratic upbringing and with bright blue eyes.) He got the second highest position in the entire empire / world. And despite his horrific disfigurement Ardee seems willing and in fact determined to be a real wife to Glokta, which I mean is more than he could have wished for in his condition and not to mention all his sins ... The one twist I never saw comming was Pike being Rews. I had an inkling about bayaz but some cnt spoiled that when I just started reading book2. Same for Glokta and Ardee... really sucks man. Reading a series never ever look up reviews before finishing all the books. There is always some cunt in the comments of book 1 talking about major plot stuff/spoilers in the final book or something
The first trilogy was better than the second. The characters were just more interesting. Reading through The Age of Madness I'm curious if anyone else thought of Logan when they hinted that the Emperor of Gurkhul was killed by a "demon". At the end of Red Country Logan knows who he is and seems to pick a southern destination and pick up his former life where it left off. I think he went to find Ferro.
I too was shocked by the ending, but soon realized that Abercrombie had been leaving hints all along to set it up. But ... legit question here: Was the ending of this book as shocking as the Red Wedding scene in A Storm of Swords? Of course, that wasn't the *ending* of SoS, but I think that still holds the title as the most shocking twist in "modern" fantasy. You never set down an Abercrombie book feeling triumphant at the end. They always leave a more lasting impression, the dull, lingering ache of either a pyrrhic victory, a half-victory, or a brutal, resounding defeat. Even the end of the Age of Madness trilogy left some ragged edges that still eat at me a year after putting the third book down.
Very true, I say TLAOK is this generations Storm of Swords, simply because the twists are the only others comparable to those within SOS, and it feels like the evolution from Martins style of grimdark.
Just finished this book and absolutely loved it. Same for the entire trilogy. I am pissed however that the anniversary edition hard copy is horrifically bad. I regret not buying a paperback instead which is the first time ever I've regretted getting a hardback. The grey anniversary edition mike's holding, the cover will age 20 years if you read through it once. If you've ordered it online there is basically a zero percent chance that the book will be delivered in mint condition. You basically get the book and it already looks like someone's well read favorite book. Like it's already second or third hand. And then you read through it once and it ages another 20 years. The blade itself was more expensive than the special edition of Dune! the other two books were the same price as the dune special edition. I bought them all in the same anniversary edition and I really really regret it. Wish I had just finished reading it on my ereader, did some more research on how bad the anniversary edition was. And waited for a nice, full sized hard cover edition. I can't even find the original hard cover versions! Only the anniversary edition is for sale. I bought the anniversary edition because I really loved the simplistic art style of the covers. I didn't know gently looking at them for longer than a mili second would damage the gilding and wipe the color from the cardboard. Love the books but man I'm pissed at the quality of the physical versions. I'm someone that only buys collectors, leather-bound and special editions etc. And everything about this edition is just a disappointment aside from the great story.
I just finished the blade itself yesterday, looking forward to watching this review in about 2 weeks when i finish the whole trilogy, got into the first law based off your recommendation. Awesome book 1, look forward to where the story goes Maybe the "darkness" was so hyped but honestly the characters don't seem that bad to me yet. Jezal isn't bad at all (at worst he is a mysognisit but it's only mentioned it doesn't show him as one), Logan has been fine, Glotka has been torturing bad people but I get he probably tortures innocents as well.
Id say the first 2 books are actually pretty tame grimdarks. You can come out of them feeling as if it were more humourous than grim. The Last Argument of Kings on the other hand...
@@johntencate4781 ya i honestly didn't get the grim dark vibe from "the blade itself". I have heard every booktuber say the characters are all pos' but honestly only Glotka in book one displays himself as a pos and in his defense he hasn't tortured any one that is innocent. It will be funny how my opinion changes in a couple weeks as I finish the other two books. But spot on, the blade itself I did enjoy but I wouldn't say it was grim dark, it was more just comedic banter with a hint of action and intrigue.
If this was adapted to television, then who would you choose to play Glokta? I feel like this casting would be the crux of the show...if they miss then the show is a flop.
The following is a true story . . . I thought The Blade Itself was ok. I thought Before They Are Hanged was mostly meh. But I absolutely loved Last Argument of Kings. I don't know how that happened, but there it is. Throughout it all, Glokta was the glue that held it together to get me to Last Argument, and he did not disappoint in this book. In hindsight, I now recognize the setups and alignments Abercrombie set in motion that came to fruition here. Also, wasn't bothered by the ending, but was surprised by some of it.
There really is only one character in this series that I don't like and it's Ardee West. I would have loved to know more about Bethod and the Fenris the Feared but this series is close to perfection.
I'm almost finished reading The Heroes, after reading the First Law Trilogy. I'm really beginning to get tired of the First of the Magi. There's a lot I could say here, but this is a spoiler free video, so I won't. You mentioned the losses of Dogman; in The Heroes; it's Curnden Craw...Regarding the end of Last Argument Of Kings, I think ( I hope ) that Joe won't let us down, and that there will be further adventures of my favorite Named Man.
West continues his path of redemption? Redemption from what? The only thing West ever did that was really bad was hitting Ardee... Something he did under immense amount of pressure and stress. I don't even count him killing the rpst crown prince as a bad thing esp not when you realize that the crown prince was already a dead man. West really got the short end of the stick lol.... worked his way up from commoner to a prestigious position. Only for his .. uhh "loose" sister to come over and immediately start trouble with Jezal (Remember ... West loves his sister but also knows how she is... and by the end you realize it's a lot more than just a few too many drinks or some faux pas. She likely was going around the block since she was an underage teen... she had been pregnant before etc.. Things that would not only ruin her future in "polite society" but also West's and his chances. And instead of taking it easy and trying to fit in she immediately falls into her old ways... so to say.. Imagine being in West's place, in a world with those rules, morals and values. Growing up in that world. Seeing that as normal. Then having your very attractive trouble maker sis come over and start flirting with the biggest womanizer, scumbag with superiority complex and your social better from your social circle. Imagine your sister sleeping with the Jezal from your life? And everyone knowing this finding it out. Imagine if this would ruin any prospects she might have and damage your career and future that you worked so hard for. Imagine this on top of all the stress of war etc.. It's no wonder he lost control no matter how messed up or shocking that was. Then he does all this great stuff. Becomes a great military leader. Only to go out like that? Meanwhile the torturer gets the money, the position and the girl ... \ But yeah that's life. And I actually liked that about the book even when it hurt. No one gets what they deserve as the book often mentions.
@@mikesbookreviews Bro he choked her against a wall and slapped her once I believe. Something he then immediately intensely regretted and did so for the remainder of the story. It's not like he viscously beat her and then tried to justify it etc. He was aware of how horrible what he had done was. And did it in a moment of immense stress and pressure. In a society where a girl like Ardee can literally ruin your life and reputation, destroying any chances you have at advancement. For a commoner that worked his way up like West did. That's an even harder pill to swallow. Despite her unorthodox behavior let's say, he does clearly care an immense amount for her. Similarly he also felt extremely guilty over leaving Ardee at home. Even though, no matter how bad that sound, that's not his burden to bare and he was likely in just as toxic of a situation trying to get away. Ardee clearly blamed him. While also not feeling at home at the Agriont because the aristocrats see her as a social lesser. So she has a strong feeling of inferiority, of not belonging etc. Which makes her lash out even more combined with the constant drinking etc. West working his ass off to 'raise' the family name. Get places and secure wealth and power for his family (inc Ardee). Meanwhile Ardee decides to try and seduce Jezal of all people. The same Jezal that only uses women for his own satisfaction. The same Jezal that sees West beneath him and believed that West had no right to be in his position (this while West was praising him). Arguably the worst guy in his social circle. Which also is partly his fault ... why trust your sister to Jezal? Esp knowing how your sister and Jezal are. A man born and raised in a patriarchy the likes of the world of the first law. Would have very little qualms about hitting a woman. Esp a younger sibling. No matter how horrific this might sound to you. The fact that West is so torn up about what he did. And just as shocked as the reader at his loss of control. The fact that he is full of regret and can't stop thinking about it. Speaks volumes for his character. Certainly didn't deserve the ending he got. But hey, "no one gets what they deserve". To act like this makes West this horrible character that is hard to redeem is weird. Considering what fan favorite Glokta does during the story. Inc to innocent people. Or the way Logen behaves sometimes.. not to mention ruthlessly killing friends and children when the bloody nine pops up. I mean at the end. Glokta's way to convince spoiled Terez is to imprison her lesbian lover. He doesn't just threaten to hurt her though. He threatens to have her mass R by all his practicals.
@@hawk66100 The bigger tragedy with Jezal is that he actually became a much better person. He has such incredible character development. If he had any freedom he would actually try to use his power for good. But he doesn't .. he's just a puppet. This is actually everything he would have wanted before.. old Jezal wouldn't have cared if he was a puppet, as long as he was rich, comfortable and seemingly in power. He would just be happy with everyone worshipping him as a king. As you said he's got everything he wanted, but I actually do think he kinda got it how he (would've) wanted. The problem is that he isn't that same guy anymore... so whatever he wanted on the start of that journey, he cares very little for now. Even the wife he got that he's trying so hard with .. and how happy he is that she is finally softening towards him, ignorant of the fact that she's into girls and the only reason she's doing her duty is to save her gf from getting mass SA'd by Glokta's practicals. It's just all a lie. Like everything else. Man these books were good.. I think I might return to some other Abercrombie books after I'm done with the book of the new sun.
@@3choblast3r4 Yep. It’s ironic how once he got all of these things it turns out it isn’t what he wanted anymore. I also loved the part where Jezal tries to tell Bayaz off and that he can’t speak to the king that way and Bayaz tells him he’s nothing and can be replaced. Afterwards Jezal just collapses and breaks into tears of despair. I’m on my 2nd read of the trilogy now. Absolutely love this series. I still need to read the standalone novels and the sequel trilogy Age of Madness.
I loved this book and trilogy, but the Age of Madness Trilogy really makes it all lose value to me. I probably should not feel this way and appreciate the masterpieces the first 5 books were, but still. I can never say how people think Age of Madness is on par with this trilogy.
Man I swear this the most underated fantasy book ever. Legit in the top 10 of all time in the genres history, the modern day Storm of Swords.
underrated??? to me it is overrated
It released closer to Storm of Swords than the present day (2000 and 2008) so I wouldn't call it modern in that respect.
Last Argument of Kings is damn near perfect! Thinking back through it, there are so many twists, turns and amazing moments that I can’t believe they were all squeezed into one book. While the battles are epic, my favorite part of the book is the last 100 pages where we’re dealing with the fall out. Such a heartbreaking yet satisfying ending for me.
I'm so glad you've been making some First Law content, Mike. It's always good to be reminded of one of my favorite fantasy series of all time and why I love it.
Definitely!
When I tell people about this trilogy, I tell them it is much like the LOTR in that you can't read one or two books, it's meant to be read as one book, split into three parts.
I'm wondering if your books will be similar Philip? ;)
@@VicRibeiro777 My trilogy is very much meant to be that way, Vic. 😊 Cheers!
The ending was amazing just like the beginning. Started off with a bang and ended with a bang and I thought it was very fitting. Probably one of my favorite endings.
One character came full circle, one character got everything he ever wanted and more and ended up miserable, and one character things actually ended pretty good for.
This trilogy is sooooo good, I loved the ending and it felt consistent with the style of the books.
Also we need to come up with a different term for the ‘standalone’ books. That suggests the books are separate and could be skipped. To me First Law is a 10 book series and is best read that way (even skipping Sharp Ends means missing out on crucial elements imo).
I think the books are standalone in plot only. The character work is over arching the entire series…for the ones that make it that long.
I’m in the last half of book 2. I’ll be back to this in a few days. Loving this series thanks to you!
Back the same day! Finished Bk 2. Five star just like Bk. 1
@@laurac56what did you think of the 3rd one
@@johntencate4781 Very good, but not quite as good as books 1 & 2-4 stars. I have yet to go on, but will.
I loved the ending! Left me thirsty for more. I read the trilogy last year and just couldn't put it down. I read the standalones at the start of this year and am just finishing up Wisdom of crowds now. It's going to be sad to leave that world behind!
This is still my favorite First Law book. There is just so many good things to say about it. It subverted my expectations and just threw some major twists at you. Plus, Abercrombie’s writing is so good. The way he uses repetition and the way he completed each character arc is just pure genius. This book was so heartbreaking, but in the best of ways.
Glokta is hands down my favorite character in this trilogy. I think the first two are great step up for a fantastic ending to a trilogy. Great review as always Mike!
I just finished this book and loved it! I’m new to fantasy and I’m glad I started with this series! Looking forward to the other books!
Not only my favorite The First Law book, but the one i hold in the highest regard in the entire genre of fantasy. Nothing i ever read afterward, be it in The First Law world or otherwise, has even come close to beating this absolute marvel of a novel. To some extent it even ruined my experience of the standalone books, as it set the bar so high it might even be touching the stars at this very moment.
Thought the stand-alone were just as good (Red country is kinda mid)
Finished the last argument of kings yesterday. That ending 👀so glad that I have read this trilogy
Yeah that ending
I tried to finish last night but fell asleep lol. Just finished a bit ago and taking it all in now.
This series is absolutely brilliant.
The ending is nothing short of brilliant. My favorite Abercrombie book.
Does anyone else notice that the first chapter and last chapter, three books later, is Logen falling through the air over water? I just love it!
Just coming to say that the stand alone novels are superb! I don't think you can properly appreciate some of the character growth/changes that you see in Age of Madness unless you read them. I loved the ending of Last Argument of Kings. It is unforgettable.
The moment I finished this book, I was like "It's good, but." I didn't know what the "but" was: I just needed to digest that ending. A few days later I realised that it was pure genius.
Yeah, I was underwhelmed when I first read it because I was still kind of into the happier ending fantasy so I was let down. But now I love it, it's pretty much the perfect book.
i just finished the book literally, processing it. I want more lol... I feel like the book just started as it ended. The 3 combined is kind of a one book on it's own. Now that certain characters end up in certain positions, what now? I must know
I love when Jezal thinks to himself towards the end: It could only be Bayaz, ever present at his side, his eternal tormentor.
😂🤣
I'm on my third listen of the audiobooks. Great series 😊
I've read the first two and I have yet to pick up Last Argument of Kings. This is getting me excited to finally do it!
Chef's kiss to this last book. Stand out! And listening to it is even better than reading it tbh. I'm on my 3rd listen to all 9 books...on The Heroes right now.
Literally just finished the last 2 chapters a min ago. Great timing
loved this trilogy, im a plot guy so the first book was a struggle until i realised i loved the characters then i was hooked. hope to continue with the stand alones this year
Excellent overview! What a series.
I looooved this book. I couldn't get enough of Glokta and Jezal. For Logen, I can't say I was too excited to read about his journey... But as you say, the ending of this book leaves you with so much questions. In a sense, I couldn't believe this was an ending at all. You need moreeee! I'll get to the next books soon.
The twist in the last argument of kings definitely shocked me and that ending
I also like the part: “ I bought you from a whore for six marks. She wanted 25 but I drive a hard bargain. “
Savage burn 🔥 😂🤣😭
Mike i just have to say thank you SO MUCH! your recommendation got me to grab the first law trilogy and ive been thrilled with them so far, im 1/3 of the way through argument of kings and i cant put the book down haha :) im a die hard fan of ASOIAF , but even so! joe's grim dark world is probably my second fav dark fantasy setting. i wish you all the best this year sir! MAY YOUR CUP STAY FULL AND YOUR SWORD STAY SHARP MY FRIEND!
Funny you mentioned reading it before bed, because that's exactly how I finished it, reading well past 2 AM last night! I kept close track of the fact I was only 40--30--20 pages from the end, and a "satisfying" conclusion seemed to be no where in sight. Despite wanting more for the characters I'd grown to love, I can't say that I'd change any of their outcomes. The concept of fairness and people getting what they deserve was sprinkled throughout the series quite generously, so I suspected things might not end so traditionally, but yeesh, I didn't expect that!
Still my favourite book in the first law world. Those last 200 pages are completely insane.
I have a unique reading experience for this series, as my dad got me to read The Heroes first since it was the only we had, and I was just hooked from the very first chapter. So reading the First Law trilogy always felt like a prequel to me, few spoilers about a few of the character fates aside, it was really an awesome ride.
Nice review Mike! Bayaz is definitely my favourite character.
Might need to reread the series next year
Say one thing about the first law series... say It's hard to explain but it's simplz freaking amazing
I read these so long ago I really need to reread
Just finished this one for the first time today after I read that last page I put the book down took a long sigh and said “Say one thing about Logen Ninefingers say he’s lucky” weather he comes back in other books or not love the way the trilogy ended
This is the only series that I wish I could read it again for the first time. I was at work, on my lunch break, when I finished Kings and I did NOT want to go back to work. It was a LONG afternoon!
Such a great read. Glad I decided to read them this year
Just finished it and still reeling, can't really appreciate it atm
Loved the ending, currently reading The Heroes and every book is great.
The Heroes have some absolutely outstanding battle sequences. Enjoy!
I ordered the first 3 books 3 weeks ago, still waiting, I'm becoming impatient!
Just finished the series a few days ago for the second time, and it was better the second time around. There is so much more to this series than I realized. Aside from the fantastic story and characters, is the idea of what is power, and how it can shape what we perceive what is right and wrong. Sometimes I hear complaints about the ending, but after the second read through, it couldn't have ended any other way. This series will also hit you in the feels. Especially the Northmen story arcs. Damn near perfect trilogy.
Logen is his own worst enemy. If only he could get over the idea that he has to constantly fight and threaten his own he might actually have been a king that they followed and respected. Even Shivers would have gained some respect for him ... in fact doesn't stab him in the back in the end regardless of his hatred for the bloody nine.
Glokta really had an ending as good and perfect as could be. He got the second hottest / third girl in the story (I imagine Terez as the most beautiful, followed by dan Eider, who I imagined sorta like Ardee, slightly bronze skin, only far more elegant due to an aristocratic upbringing and with bright blue eyes.) He got the second highest position in the entire empire / world. And despite his horrific disfigurement Ardee seems willing and in fact determined to be a real wife to Glokta, which I mean is more than he could have wished for in his condition and not to mention all his sins ...
The one twist I never saw comming was Pike being Rews. I had an inkling about bayaz but some cnt spoiled that when I just started reading book2. Same for Glokta and Ardee... really sucks man. Reading a series never ever look up reviews before finishing all the books. There is always some cunt in the comments of book 1 talking about major plot stuff/spoilers in the final book or something
I'm currently reading some Discworld, but I plan to return to the stand alones once I finish Small Gods.
The first trilogy was better than the second. The characters were just more interesting. Reading through The Age of Madness I'm curious if anyone else thought of Logan when they hinted that the Emperor of Gurkhul was killed by a "demon". At the end of Red Country Logan knows who he is and seems to pick a southern destination and pick up his former life where it left off. I think he went to find Ferro.
Bayaz is my favourite, of all the bastards that Joe Abercrombie has created. Say one thing about Joe Abercrombie, say he writes the best bastards.
I too was shocked by the ending, but soon realized that Abercrombie had been leaving hints all along to set it up. But ... legit question here: Was the ending of this book as shocking as the Red Wedding scene in A Storm of Swords? Of course, that wasn't the *ending* of SoS, but I think that still holds the title as the most shocking twist in "modern" fantasy. You never set down an Abercrombie book feeling triumphant at the end. They always leave a more lasting impression, the dull, lingering ache of either a pyrrhic victory, a half-victory, or a brutal, resounding defeat. Even the end of the Age of Madness trilogy left some ragged edges that still eat at me a year after putting the third book down.
Very true, I say TLAOK is this generations Storm of Swords, simply because the twists are the only others comparable to those within SOS, and it feels like the evolution from Martins style of grimdark.
Just finished this book and absolutely loved it. Same for the entire trilogy. I am pissed however that the anniversary edition hard copy is horrifically bad. I regret not buying a paperback instead which is the first time ever I've regretted getting a hardback. The grey anniversary edition mike's holding, the cover will age 20 years if you read through it once. If you've ordered it online there is basically a zero percent chance that the book will be delivered in mint condition. You basically get the book and it already looks like someone's well read favorite book. Like it's already second or third hand. And then you read through it once and it ages another 20 years.
The blade itself was more expensive than the special edition of Dune! the other two books were the same price as the dune special edition. I bought them all in the same anniversary edition and I really really regret it. Wish I had just finished reading it on my ereader, did some more research on how bad the anniversary edition was. And waited for a nice, full sized hard cover edition. I can't even find the original hard cover versions! Only the anniversary edition is for sale. I bought the anniversary edition because I really loved the simplistic art style of the covers. I didn't know gently looking at them for longer than a mili second would damage the gilding and wipe the color from the cardboard.
Love the books but man I'm pissed at the quality of the physical versions. I'm someone that only buys collectors, leather-bound and special editions etc. And everything about this edition is just a disappointment aside from the great story.
The duel in this book is my favorite fantasy thing I've ever read.... it would be easier to stop the white flow... you know the rest
Probably my favorite duel in any book, I've ever read.
My third favorite fantasy book of all time after Storm of Swords and Two Towers. Incredible ending
Best book in the series
Well dash it, I may have to put down The Stone Of Farewell and re-read this.
I just finished the blade itself yesterday, looking forward to watching this review in about 2 weeks when i finish the whole trilogy, got into the first law based off your recommendation. Awesome book 1, look forward to where the story goes
Maybe the "darkness" was so hyped but honestly the characters don't seem that bad to me yet. Jezal isn't bad at all (at worst he is a mysognisit but it's only mentioned it doesn't show him as one), Logan has been fine, Glotka has been torturing bad people but I get he probably tortures innocents as well.
The tone is grim dark. The characters get better. The grimness comes from it being nhilism
Id say the first 2 books are actually pretty tame grimdarks. You can come out of them feeling as if it were more humourous than grim.
The Last Argument of Kings on the other hand...
@@johntencate4781 ya i honestly didn't get the grim dark vibe from "the blade itself". I have heard every booktuber say the characters are all pos' but honestly only Glotka in book one displays himself as a pos and in his defense he hasn't tortured any one that is innocent. It will be funny how my opinion changes in a couple weeks as I finish the other two books. But spot on, the blade itself I did enjoy but I wouldn't say it was grim dark, it was more just comedic banter with a hint of action and intrigue.
Just wait, in books 2 and 3 you learn more about the characters past.
Just finished the book 1 minute ago.... What...the...hell....
I fricking loved this trilogy would you recommend the age of madness?
I absolutely loved the ending of the trilogy! It blows my mind that there are people who don’t like the ending.
I would love to see your take on Necroscope by Brian Lumley
Loved the first 3, my favorite fantasy series. The last 3 not so much
If this was adapted to television, then who would you choose to play Glokta? I feel like this casting would be the crux of the show...if they miss then the show is a flop.
The following is a true story . . . I thought The Blade Itself was ok. I thought Before They Are Hanged was mostly meh. But I absolutely loved Last Argument of Kings. I don't know how that happened, but there it is. Throughout it all, Glokta was the glue that held it together to get me to Last Argument, and he did not disappoint in this book. In hindsight, I now recognize the setups and alignments Abercrombie set in motion that came to fruition here. Also, wasn't bothered by the ending, but was surprised by some of it.
That makes sense though, the first two books really are setup. Of course you're going to like the payoff the most.
I know you never lisen to audiobooks but you gotta lisen to the audiobooks
There really is only one character in this series that I don't like and it's Ardee West. I would have loved to know more about Bethod and the Fenris the Feared but this series is close to perfection.
I'm almost finished reading The Heroes, after reading the First Law Trilogy. I'm really beginning to get tired of the First of the Magi. There's a lot I could say here, but this is a spoiler free video, so I won't. You mentioned the losses of Dogman; in The Heroes; it's Curnden Craw...Regarding the end of Last Argument Of Kings, I think ( I hope ) that Joe won't let us down, and that there will be further adventures of my favorite Named Man.
West continues his path of redemption? Redemption from what? The only thing West ever did that was really bad was hitting Ardee... Something he did under immense amount of pressure and stress. I don't even count him killing the rpst crown prince as a bad thing esp not when you realize that the crown prince was already a dead man.
West really got the short end of the stick lol.... worked his way up from commoner to a prestigious position. Only for his .. uhh "loose" sister to come over and immediately start trouble with Jezal (Remember ... West loves his sister but also knows how she is... and by the end you realize it's a lot more than just a few too many drinks or some faux pas. She likely was going around the block since she was an underage teen... she had been pregnant before etc.. Things that would not only ruin her future in "polite society" but also West's and his chances. And instead of taking it easy and trying to fit in she immediately falls into her old ways... so to say..
Imagine being in West's place, in a world with those rules, morals and values. Growing up in that world. Seeing that as normal. Then having your very attractive trouble maker sis come over and start flirting with the biggest womanizer, scumbag with superiority complex and your social better from your social circle. Imagine your sister sleeping with the Jezal from your life? And everyone knowing this finding it out. Imagine if this would ruin any prospects she might have and damage your career and future that you worked so hard for. Imagine this on top of all the stress of war etc.. It's no wonder he lost control no matter how messed up or shocking that was.
Then he does all this great stuff. Becomes a great military leader. Only to go out like that? Meanwhile the torturer gets the money, the position and the girl ... \
But yeah that's life. And I actually liked that about the book even when it hurt. No one gets what they deserve as the book often mentions.
If you don't think beating the hell out of his sister diminished the character quite a bit, I guess we are just wired differently.
@@mikesbookreviews Bro he choked her against a wall and slapped her once I believe. Something he then immediately intensely regretted and did so for the remainder of the story. It's not like he viscously beat her and then tried to justify it etc. He was aware of how horrible what he had done was. And did it in a moment of immense stress and pressure.
In a society where a girl like Ardee can literally ruin your life and reputation, destroying any chances you have at advancement. For a commoner that worked his way up like West did. That's an even harder pill to swallow. Despite her unorthodox behavior let's say, he does clearly care an immense amount for her.
Similarly he also felt extremely guilty over leaving Ardee at home. Even though, no matter how bad that sound, that's not his burden to bare and he was likely in just as toxic of a situation trying to get away. Ardee clearly blamed him. While also not feeling at home at the Agriont because the aristocrats see her as a social lesser. So she has a strong feeling of inferiority, of not belonging etc. Which makes her lash out even more combined with the constant drinking etc.
West working his ass off to 'raise' the family name. Get places and secure wealth and power for his family (inc Ardee).
Meanwhile Ardee decides to try and seduce Jezal of all people. The same Jezal that only uses women for his own satisfaction. The same Jezal that sees West beneath him and believed that West had no right to be in his position (this while West was praising him). Arguably the worst guy in his social circle. Which also is partly his fault ... why trust your sister to Jezal? Esp knowing how your sister and Jezal are.
A man born and raised in a patriarchy the likes of the world of the first law. Would have very little qualms about hitting a woman. Esp a younger sibling. No matter how horrific this might sound to you. The fact that West is so torn up about what he did. And just as shocked as the reader at his loss of control. The fact that he is full of regret and can't stop thinking about it. Speaks volumes for his character.
Certainly didn't deserve the ending he got. But hey, "no one gets what they deserve". To act like this makes
West this horrible character that is hard to redeem is weird. Considering what fan favorite Glokta does during the story. Inc to innocent people. Or the way Logen behaves sometimes.. not to mention ruthlessly killing friends and children when the bloody nine pops up. I mean at the end. Glokta's way to convince spoiled Terez is to imprison her lesbian lover. He doesn't just threaten to hurt her though. He threatens to have her mass R by all his practicals.
The tragedy for Jezel was that he got everything he ever wanted and more but just not HOW he wanted it and is absolutely miserable now.
@@hawk66100 The bigger tragedy with Jezal is that he actually became a much better person. He has such incredible character development. If he had any freedom he would actually try to use his power for good. But he doesn't .. he's just a puppet. This is actually everything he would have wanted before.. old Jezal wouldn't have cared if he was a puppet, as long as he was rich, comfortable and seemingly in power. He would just be happy with everyone worshipping him as a king. As you said he's got everything he wanted, but I actually do think he kinda got it how he (would've) wanted. The problem is that he isn't that same guy anymore... so whatever he wanted on the start of that journey, he cares very little for now.
Even the wife he got that he's trying so hard with .. and how happy he is that she is finally softening towards him, ignorant of the fact that she's into girls and the only reason she's doing her duty is to save her gf from getting mass SA'd by Glokta's practicals. It's just all a lie. Like everything else.
Man these books were good.. I think I might return to some other Abercrombie books after I'm done with the book of the new sun.
@@3choblast3r4 Yep. It’s ironic how once he got all of these things it turns out it isn’t what he wanted anymore. I also loved the part where Jezal tries to tell Bayaz off and that he can’t speak to the king that way and Bayaz tells him he’s nothing and can be replaced. Afterwards Jezal just collapses and breaks into tears of despair. I’m on my 2nd read of the trilogy now. Absolutely love this series. I still need to read the standalone novels and the sequel trilogy Age of Madness.
Getting married to the wrong woman is always a bad idea. ALWAYS!!
Xd
I'm still scared of starting the standalones... I hate to have anything ruin Abercrombie for me...
Read them, they're worth it. And read the Age of Madness trilogy too.
I loved this book and trilogy, but the Age of Madness Trilogy really makes it all lose value to me. I probably should not feel this way and appreciate the masterpieces the first 5 books were, but still. I can never say how people think Age of Madness is on par with this trilogy.