Review summary
A secret order of monsters is sent across a magic-riddled Europe to protect a dangerous young woman and solve problems the righteous servants of the Church cannot touch.
Full review
The Devils leaves the First Law world for an alternate Europe where the Church secretly employs monsters to do what its respectable servants cannot. The mission gathers violent, compromised personalities around a young woman whose survival may affect kingdoms and faith alike.
Joe Abercrombie keeps his familiar interest in bad choices, institutional hypocrisy, and vicious humor, but gives the story the forward drive of a quest and the unruly chemistry of a monster squad. It is bloody and cynical without losing the pleasure of watching impossible companions become a team.
Monsters working for the righteous
The central joke is also the moral problem: an institution claiming purity depends on creatures it publicly condemns. Every success exposes the distance between doctrine and survival.
Tone and audience
Expect graphic violence, black comedy, irreverence, and characters who are more entertaining than admirable. No First Law knowledge is required.
Key ideas
- Institutions outsource sin while preserving the appearance of virtue.
- A shared enemy can create loyalty among people who do not trust one another.
- Monstrosity depends partly on who has the authority to define it.
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FAQ
- Is The Devils connected to The First Law?
- No. It begins a separate fantasy setting and can be read without Abercrombie's earlier books.
- How dark is The Devils?
- It contains strong violence, death, cruelty, and black humor, though its team dynamics make it more openly adventurous than relentlessly bleak.
Reading guide
- Track what each member wants beyond the mission.
- Notice when religious language disguises political calculation.
- Compare public heroes with the hidden people doing the work.
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