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jordanreedsbooks 's review for:
Before They Are Hanged
by Joe Abercrombie
"Before They Are Hanged" by Joe Abercrombie is an incredible book that improves on the first one in the series. The story is more focused, with three main plotlines, and it's fascinating how every character is flawed in their own way. The world feels dark, gritty, and very real. Abercrombie has truly excelled with this book.
The book explores Bayaz and his crew's journey to retrieve the "seed," Glokta defending a city from invaders, and a battle between King Bethod and the Union soldiers. The characters are deeply complex and go through significant growth. Glokta, for example, shows unexpected kindness despite the risks, and Captain West makes a shocking decision to protect a girl. These moments add depth to their characters.
Character development is outstanding. You find yourself rooting for the same characters from the first book and some new ones. Glokta stands out, evolving into a more complex figure beyond his role as a tortured torturer. Jezal and Logen remain compelling, though Ferro and Bayaz were less engaging for me this time.
The pacing is slower, allowing you to appreciate the characters' growth and enjoy the world-building. That being said, it kept me interested throughout. If you prefer fast-paced reads, this might not be for you, but if you enjoy deep, character-driven stories, you'll find it rewarding.
Overall, "Before They Are Hanged" is a solid sequel that avoids the typical second-book slump. I'm excited to read the third book.
The book explores Bayaz and his crew's journey to retrieve the "seed," Glokta defending a city from invaders, and a battle between King Bethod and the Union soldiers. The characters are deeply complex and go through significant growth. Glokta, for example, shows unexpected kindness despite the risks, and Captain West makes a shocking decision to protect a girl. These moments add depth to their characters.
Character development is outstanding. You find yourself rooting for the same characters from the first book and some new ones. Glokta stands out, evolving into a more complex figure beyond his role as a tortured torturer. Jezal and Logen remain compelling, though Ferro and Bayaz were less engaging for me this time.
The pacing is slower, allowing you to appreciate the characters' growth and enjoy the world-building. That being said, it kept me interested throughout. If you prefer fast-paced reads, this might not be for you, but if you enjoy deep, character-driven stories, you'll find it rewarding.
Overall, "Before They Are Hanged" is a solid sequel that avoids the typical second-book slump. I'm excited to read the third book.