Book Review The Blade Itself | Joe Abercrombie

Introduction & Background

When Joe Abercrombie first published The Blade Itself, it became the beginning of The First Law trilogy. I still remember reading about how every literary agent he approached rejected him again and again before he finally found support at Gollancz. That struggle impressed me. Over the years, the book built a huge reputation in the fantasy world. For many readers, including me, it is worth picking up again to see how the first step into Abercrombie’s world still feels today.

Plot

In my opening paragraph, I clearly remember thinking that the plot of The Blade Itself felt weak when I first listened to it some years ago. At that time, I had little appreciation for what the story was doing, even though I enjoyed the characters. After more reading in the fantasy world, I came back with fresh eyes and found myself drawn to the way the book quietly develops its themes.

This first book in the series may not deliver big shocks, but in the fantastical setting it’s the politics that really drives what happens. You can see how Abercrombie intended the plot to grow gradually, shaping your impressions through the details rather than trying to blow readers away with sudden twists or sweeping character arcs. Instead, it stays solid, grounding the world and helping to build a foundation for the larger story and the layered characters who carry it.

Focus on Characters in The Blade Itself

The main reason this book shines is the incredible characters like Jezal, Glokta and Logen. Each has a very different point of view. Jezal is a selfish nobleman who thinks he is better than everyone. I disliked him from the start, yet I still enjoyed reading his scenes. His thoughts show arrogance mixed with doubt and uncomfortable friendships.

Glokta is a crippled torturer who once was a great swordsman. Now he lives in pain and works inside dangerous political games. His bitterness makes him both funny and sad. By contrast, Logen is focused on keeping his companions alive so they don’t die in battle. From my writing degree, I learned how even a character who seems small in the plot can hold the reader. Logen’s chapters proved that. His parts kept me reading until the end every single time.

Fans of criminal brotherhoods and clever schemes will enjoy The Lies of Locke Lamora Book Review.

Themes & World-Building in The Blade Itself

The plot of this book may not match what some fantasy readers expect. The story works more as a setup for the next two books. Instead of rushing, it creates a long and rich world filled with hidden secrets. Many book reviews mention that the slower pace can feel unusual. In my opinion, this pacing adds depth and makes the world more powerful.

Unlike many fantasy stories that use dragons or huge magical battles, this trilogy builds tension through politics, betrayal and personal conflict. It feels like reading a long saga of 1500–2000 pages that slowly leads toward the classic action readers want. What impressed me most was how the world felt alive. Cultures, countries and threats all feel real. This book sat on my TBR for years, but once I finally opened it, I understood why so many readers call it a favourite.

World & Style of The Blade Itself

The Blade Itself creates a dark and gritty world filled with morally grey characters and endless war. It avoids the usual clichés of dark lords and perfect heroes. Instead, it starts one of the strongest fantasy trilogies of the modern age. With shifting perspectives, sharp humor, fast action and an unpredictable plot, the book even makes fun of classic fantasy tropes. It came a decade before Game of Thrones aired, yet it still gave the grimdark style a place in mainstream fantasy.

Every character feels real. Logen is quiet and smart. Jezal is proud, foolish and rude. Glokta, my favourite, is bitter and brutal yet strangely charming. When I first read the book in December, it felt like the perfect time to discover a winner. This classic fantasy proves itself from start to finish. My advice is simple: buy it, read it and finish it.

Personal Experience

When I stepped into Abercrombie’s world for the first time, it felt like perfect timing. I began reading in December of last year, and I realized almost instantly that I was holding something special. The story carried a classic feeling that is rare in modern fantasy. It stayed in my mind long after I closed the book.

The joy came not only from the story. It also came from remembering why I love books that take risks. The Blade Itself reminded me how exciting it feels to buy, read and finish a book that leaves a long-lasting impact.

Final Thoughts & Rating on The Blade Itself

I believe the sequel to this book has the potential to become one of my favourite fantasy reads ever. If Abercrombie expands the world, develops the characters further and builds the plot into something grand, he could create a masterpiece. The writing already shows a deep understanding of grimdark style. The sharp humour keeps the story grounded and highly enjoyable.

Among all the characters, Glokta stands out the most. He is funny, dark, smart and unforgettable as an anti-hero. For me, he easily became a favourite. Every scene with him was a pleasure to read.

If you like large casts with shifting alliances, The Well of Ascension Review has a similar style.