Reviews

Before They Are Hanged by Joe Abercrombie

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seriuzbiznus's review against another edition

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adventurous dark funny medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

nats96's review against another edition

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adventurous dark emotional medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

wouterk's review

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5.0

This is a wonderful second book in a series. With, as far as I'm concerned no middle book syndrome at all...well perhaps only in the sense that the overarching plot lines are being set up further of course. But this book is filled up with its own plot. West goes to the North to fight Bethod, in the vincinity where the Dog Man and Nine-Fingers old crew are as well. Glokta is sent to the south to save Dagoska from the Gurkish. And, of course we had our expedition with Bayaz, first of the Magi, Logen, Ferro, Jezal, Quai and their eccentric guide Longfoot going on a mission to save the world.

One thought that came to me about Abercrombie during this book was that he somehow defies the rule 'show, don't tell' in a brilliant way. Most of the world building is done through dialogue, but
the dialogue is so interesting, witty and sharp that it makes for very entertaining 'telling without showing'. I am on the edge of my seat when Bayaz tells another story about old times. I love it when Glokta analyzes the state of Dagoska, even when the Northerners talk about the history with Bethod and such, it is captivating.

Maybe even more than the first book our characters go through lots of development, have amazing conversations and I must say this book has more action than the first one as well. In the blade itself we learn that Abercrombie writes great duels and skirmishes. Here he shows he can write battles.

Additionally, (sorry, I have to mention this), in this book there are some bedding scenes. And, I must say, it was written very sweetly, endearing and sometimes very humorous. I had the feeling that during this book, especially the second half the writing was very humorous overall. Even some of the plot twists were almost slap stick. Now I do not want to diminish the writing to a set of jokes. I think the story and emotions can really hit you where it hurts and where it should hurt and captures the imagination to no end.

Concluding, I am very happy I started this series and looking forward to finish the trilogy.