The Blade Itself (The First Law: Book One)
by Joe Abercrombie
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Book Summary Information
Author: Joe AbercrombieEdition: Paperback
Audio: English (Original Language); English (Unknown); English (Published)
Published: 2007-09-06
ISBN: 159102594X
Number of pages: 531
Publisher: Pyr
Book Reviews of The Blade Itself (The First Law: Book One)
Book Review: Cutting edge
Summary: 4 Stars
Having steered clear of fantasy novels for many years I approached this (cautiously) on the recomendation of a magazine. The initial bombardment of atypical 'fantasy' names for people and places almost made me switch off after the first few pages but the style of writing - gutsy and realistic - encouraged a perseverance that was quickly rewarded.
The Blade Within opened up into an intriguing, character-driven story that took its time, avoided cliches and created its own space within the genre. Simplistic stereotypes of good and bad have been thoughtfully avoided (although there are a fair few characters set up solely - or so it seems at this stage - as foils to other characters).
Whilst the entire first book is an exercise in exposition, setting the scene for the wider plot, the writing moves along at an exciting pace and hints at surprises further down the line. Hopefully this will be realised fully and the series will avoid the usual quest-style, good-wins-at-the-last-minute form so prevalent in mainstream fantasy. It is also hoped that the female characters play more of a role than bringing out the good in their male counterparts or following their lead in a clearly patriarchal world.
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