A review by elisaviihde
The Blade Itself by Joe Abercrombie

challenging dark mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

The Blade Itself doesn’t bother too long with introductions as it jumps straight into action. That isn’t a big worry though, as majority of the book is spent existing with a wide range of characters and multiple different pov-characters. In a fantastical medieval-esque world many different places are established with various political relationships with one another. As the novel goes on, there are small mysteries that keep on piling and developing throughout. In the end it feels more like a big build-up novel for the sequels to come as conflicts start to brew. That being said, it’s very well crafted so and the characters themselves provide enough interest for the lack of a clear plot.
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