Joe Abercrombie

"I have learned all kinds of things from my many mistakes. The one thing I never learn is to stop making them."

Abercrombie was born in Lancaster, England. He was educated at Lancaster Royal Grammar School and Manchester University, where he studied psychology.

Abercrombie moved into television production before taking up a career as a freelance film editor. During a break between jobs he began writing The Blade Itself in 2002, completing it in 2004.

Abercrombie lives in Bath, Somerset with his wife and three children.

What genre does Joe Abercrombie write?

He is best known for dark, character-driven fantasy, often described as gritty or grimdark. His work includes epic fantasy novels, standalone novels set in the same world, and shorter fiction.

What is the reading order for The First Law books?

Start with The Blade Itself (Book 1), then Before They Are Hanged (Book 2), and then Last Argument of Kings (Book 3). After the original trilogy, you can read the standalone novels set in the same world and the short story collection.

Where is the best place to start with his work?

For adult readers new to Abercrombie, begin with The Blade Itself. If you prefer a younger-protagonist, coming-of-age style, try Half a King from the Shattered Sea trilogy.

Are his novels set in the same world or are they standalone?

Many of his adult novels are set in the same First Law world, including the original trilogy and several standalone novels. He has also written separate series within that setting and a distinct trilogy for younger readers.