Audio Book Review: The First Law triology by Joe Abercrombie

I recently had my first experience involving audio books. I needed something interactive to listen to on my regular drive to and from Perth – a round journey of about six hours. So, I thought why not try out audio books and see how well they replace complete boredom - I love music, but music doesn’t make the journey feel any shorter.

A few days later, I bought The Blade Itself by Joe Abercrombie and a few days after that, I started to listen. At first it was a strange thing to grasp. The voice of the narrator somehow changes the perception of your own voice you have always read with. I’m not sure how to explain it, but it’s not the same as reading. I never ‘escaped’ into that world where you are just enveloped, like a hug you don’t want to let go of. Maybe that is partially to do with the fact I am driving when I listen, but I still get a strong sense that it will never be the same as reading.

Don’t get me wrong I really enjoyed the series – just in a different way. From the first few chapters, I could tell Ninefingers and I would get on splendidly. I have to say, I was never attracted to many of the other characters. I was angry at Jezal for being a pompous ass, I loathed Glokta, felt frustrated by Ferro and cautious about Bayaz. But in a way, the fact that I didn’t really like these characters is Abercrombie’s writing to a tea. He is gritty, but he is also very honest and his characters are perfect representations of that quality. Safe to say, I was still intrigued enough to want to keep listening; job done as the author.

I’m not including any spoilers, but the only thing I really felt disappointed by was the series ending. I felt too many things were just left open. As soon as I got home, I jumped on the internet to see if this was indeed the last book or if Joe had plans to revisit the series. Not at this stage! What! I was so frustrated. I understand that Abercrombie's style is real and hard and, but I really couldn't walk away not knowing what happened and feel pleased. In saying that, it's quite clear that Abercrombie stuck to his guns and refused to tie up all the plot lines into a 'traditional' ending. It sucked for me, because that's what I like. Still how can you hate on a guy who's entire series wasn't traditional or perfect and then bag him out for ending it that way.

Overall series mark: 4/5