A review by elenap
The Blade Itself by Joe Abercrombie

adventurous funny lighthearted medium-paced

4.0

Had a rocky start with this one, but now I can't wait to read the next books.

I must admit, the first 100 pages or so felt like a Monty Python movie. Logen's part was kind of serious, but everything that happened in the city seemed like a theatrical farce (Jezal's chapters were torture and Glokta's discussion with his superiors a big joke). I was really ready to quit, but in the end I persevered, and consider I have been rewarded.

So far Logen is my favourite character and I cannot wait for him to be reunited with his friends. He's (now) a gentle giant and I just want to hug him. The scene where he comes to Adua was so well crafted! The anxiety mixed with curiosity, distaste, and admiration was a joy to read and I loved that we experienced the city along with him. The female characters are also interesting, and I want to know more.

Also, Glokta felt at times like a motivation influencer with his must work through the pain one step at a time approach.

All in all, I've had a great time with the last 2 thirds of the book.