


In an interview a decade later in 2019 Abercrombie acknowledged that it’s easy to write women into any story if you just stop to think about it. The main character in this series is female, and it was Abercrombie’s first time writing from this perspective. The Age of Madness features a notable uptick in female representation. In that same 2009 interview Abercrombie spoke about how he challenged himself more when he wrote the second trilogy set in this world. You will also be able to enjoy Abercrombie’s development and progress as an author, which he is very open about. If you begin with The Blade Itself, you will experience this world as Abercrombie initially intended. However, if you have the choice and inclination, starting at the beginning of the series is your best option.

Therefore, it is possible to begin your Abercrombie reading journey with one of his standalones, or with the second trilogy, since the books were written with that possibility in mind. In a 2009 interview, Abercrombie said his intention with writing the first standalone set in this world, Best Served Cold, was for the book to work either as an introduction or a continuation. While you don’t necessarily need to begin with The First Law trilogy, it is arguably the best place to start.

Do you need to read The Blade Itself first? Whether you’ve been a fan since his debut novel back in 2006, are eager to learn more following the recent The Devils announcement, or anywhere in between, this will be your ultimate guide on Abercrombie’s books. If you’re a fan of dark fantasy, gritty atmosphere, and morally grey characters, then it’s no wonder you’re looking for a list of the Joe Abercrombie books in order.
