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A Little Hatred

(The Age of Madness #1)

Joe Abercrombie

4.51 · Rating details · 6,928 ratings · 876 reviews

The chimneys of industry rise over Adua and the world seethes with new opportunities. But old scores run deep as ever.

On the blood-soaked borders of Angland, Leo dan Brock struggles to win fame on the battlefield, and defeat the marauding armies of Stour Nightfall. He hopes for help from the crown. But King Jezal's son, the feckless Prince Orso, is a man who specializes in ...more

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Hardcover, First US Edition, 480 pages

Published September 17th 2019 by Orbit

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May 04, 2019 Robin Hobb rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: solid-fantasy

First, the usual caveats. I received an advance copy of this book, free, from the publishers. And I consider Joe Abercrombie a friend. I do not think that affects my review of this book.

Joe Abercrombie continues to do what he does best. He sets up a very large chess board, with multiple pieces. Often several pieces are in motion at the same time, and as always, the pieces are all the same color. It is truly up to the reader to decide which faction they will cheer for, as the characters continue ...more

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Aug 19, 2019 Petrik rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Recommends it for: Grimdark fantasy fans

Shelves: owned-physical-books, favorites, arcs-and-review-copies

ARC provided by the publisher—Gollancz—in exchange for an honest review.

Grim, dark, fun, and glorious; A Little Hatred is irrefutably worth the wait.

Let me begin by saying that although this is a new series in the First Law World and you can technically start your journey into this world here, it’s quite mandatory to read at least The First Law trilogy in order to fully appreciate the intricacies of this book; even better if you’ve also read Best Served Cold and The Heroes. Reading A Little ...more

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Apr 04, 2019 Emma rated it it was amazing

Shelves: fantasybookreview

***SPOILER FREE REVIEW***

‘War? It’s a fight so big almost no one comes out of it well’

First of all, this is not fantasy as we know it. In fact, this is barely fantasy at all. Undoubtedly epic, with more than a hint of magic, this is a high fantasy world with a low fantasy feel. It's a sign of the times- even the big hitters are pursing influence though finance and banking instead of sorcery… The First Law world is, for all intents and purposes, our world. As a result, the book reads a bit more ***SPOILER FREE REVIEW***

‘War? It’s a fight so big almost no one comes out of it well’

First of all, this is not fantasy as we know it. In fact, this is barely fantasy at all. Undoubtedly epic, with more than a hint of magic, this is a high fantasy world with a low fantasy feel. It's a sign of the times- even the big hitters are pursing influence though finance and banking instead of sorcery… The First Law world is, for all intents and purposes, our world. As a result, the book reads a bit more like historical fiction. A lot more like history. If nothing else, the author must have done some serious research into the Industrial and French revolutions to so evocatively and effectively depict this kind of terror, these sorts of turbulent times. It’s nothing less than a deconstruction of humanity. And because of that, it’s the very best kind of story telling. This is history in action, bloody and indifferent. It’s a clear eyed look at who people really are and what they really do, in wealth or poverty, in revolution, in war. Revealed here are the dangers of idealised Progress, especially when it’s really just about Profit, and action for and by the People, especially when it’s just about Power. Look around, fellow readers, at the world we live in now; this isn’t just a book about the past. Fear not though, if this all sounds a bit serious, this is pure Abercrombie. Plots within plots, brutal violence, death and destruction, surprises, and a gold thread of humour to balance the grim.

The author isn’t the only one who has been looking at the past for inspiration, the narrative is steeped in the supposed glory days of what came before. The events detailed in the First Law Trilogy form more than just the backdrop for this book, they inform the actions and attitudes of all the players. Perhaps you could begin your reading journey here but I highly recommend you don’t. Not only are there characters from past books playing significant roles (no, I’m not telling who), many of the issues in play come directly from the other books in the series. Or at least, the memory of them or their legend. Everyone’s favourite psychopath, Logen Ninefingers, figures heavily in the hero worship of this new age of young warriors, exerting the kind of influence that changes the course of the future. If this is a book about what the past has to teach us, it’s clear to me that many of the characters have learned all the wrong lessons.

And what characters they are. Since there’s only limited information in the blurb, I’m not going to spoil any surprises, but at least one of the new introductions is heading towards my favourites list already. Maybe even two. Every flaw, every bit of self-delusion, every failed attempt at virtue is on show, the good in people repeatedly shoved aside by circumstance or self-interest. It’s the kind of real that has you chuckling darkly to yourself in recognition. And if you’re not? Well, perhaps you should take another look… It’s not all gritty inhumanity. Mostly, but not all. Even Abercrombie leaves some room for hope. Except now I’m remembering the overarching pattern of the first trilogy and wondering whether he’s playing on my innate optimism? I wouldn’t put it past him.

Anyway, this book is exceptional. Indisputably, spectacularly, criminally good. Clever, funny, and packed with cutting commentary, it’s well worth the wait.

ARC via publisher ...more

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Sep 15, 2019 Peter rated it it was amazing

Shelves: fantasy, favorites, netgalley

Instability
Joe Abercrombie has written an outstanding, earth-shattering book. A Little Hatred, is the first book of his new trilogy The Age of Madness, which is based in the world he created for The First Law trilogy. The lands of The Union and its neighbouring empires reverberate with the past echoes of battles, courageous exploits and heroic characters. Characters such as Logan Ninefingers, Dogman, Black Dow, The Feared, Jezal dan Luther and Sand dan Glokta, are still mentioned in revered Instability
Joe Abercrombie has written an outstanding, earth-shattering book. A Little Hatred, is the first book of his new trilogy The Age of Madness, which is based in the world he created for The First Law trilogy. The lands of The Union and its neighbouring empires reverberate with the past echoes of battles, courageous exploits and heroic characters. Characters such as Logan Ninefingers, Dogman, Black Dow, The Feared, Jezal dan Luther and Sand dan Glokta, are still mentioned in revered tones, and after 30 years, some are still alive.
description

This is a novel that is structured along multiple threads and points of view, which provide a wide variety of fascinating story arcs. Abercrombie manages to create a new array of unforgettable characters who all equally contribute to an adventurous story. He creates diverse complex characters, where some you will favour, but he doesn’t make it easy, as each person conveys traits that portray what is good and bad in humanity, what is virtuous, and what is corrupt.

The Union has fought the toughest wars for years and it has cost a lot of money and even though there has been peace for a long time, the debt of war is substantial. In current times an industrial change is underway where machines have the capacity to outwork and outperform real people. The nature of jobs will also change and we only have to reflect how our own industrial revolution affected the lives of so many. With increased industrialisation comes the movement of people from rural areas to cities and for some comes increased wealth, while for many others comes poverty, hardship and resentment. Something will give and society feels like a tinderbox waiting for the spark to ignite a revolution.

“ ‘Every man with a say in how he’s governed. Every man with a vote.’ ‘So no more king?’ ‘Every man’ll be a king!’ Broad might’ve called it treason once, but his patriotic feelings had taken quite the kicking the last couple of years. Now it just sounded like daydreams.”

With the cost of industrialisation, innovation, and serious debt, the Union is ill-equipped to fight another war. Please let there be another war!

To add to the precarious position of the Union, the North under the leadership of Stour Nightfall, the Great Wolf, have started attacking the northern border of Angland. A border defended by Lady Finree and her son Leo, the Young Lion, who may have the courage but not the wit to battle the seasoned warrior, Nightfall. Other characters providing a unique POV and storyline include Dogman’s daughter, Rikke, gifted with the Long Eye, Savine dan Glokta, the highly intelligent and ruthless daughter of the chief inquisitor, and Prince Orso, heir to the throne of The Union’s empire, Broad, Clover and Vic. It was wonderful to read each enthralling and entertaining narrative with equal fascination.

There is no reason why this book can’t be read without any previous experience of Joe Abercrombie’s First Law world. However, knowing how he writes his trilogies you need to start this trilogy with this book. Also, if you have the chance of reading the First Law trilogy before this, take the opportunity – not only will you adore it but you’ll meet wonderful characters that only get a mention in this book.

I would highly recommend this book and this fantasy world and characters Joe Abercrombie has created, stand with the best ever imagined. I'd like to thank Orion Publishing Group and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC version in return for an honest review. ...more

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Mar 27, 2019 Nicholas Eames rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Yep, this was as awesome as I'd hoped it would be. Witty, bloody, and fun. Phenomenal characters abound, and it sets the stage for even grander things to come.

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Sep 03, 2019 James Lafayette Tivendale rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: freecopy, fantasy

I received an advanced review copy of A Little Hatred in exchange for an honest review. I would like to thank Joe Abercrombie and Gollancz.

This first novel in The Age of Madness series is set a generation after The First Law trilogy. We are reintroduced to this world as it is in a bit of a crisis. It's a new age that features the introduction of machinery, a potential revolution, brutal hard labour, and the fear and hatred of progression. It's reaching a boiling point and that could soon equate I received an advanced review copy of A Little Hatred in exchange for an honest review. I would like to thank Joe Abercrombie and Gollancz.

This first novel in The Age of Madness series is set a generation after The First Law trilogy. We are reintroduced to this world as it is in a bit of a crisis. It's a new age that features the introduction of machinery, a potential revolution, brutal hard labour, and the fear and hatred of progression. It's reaching a boiling point and that could soon equate to absolute turmoil. Here, once again, Abercrombie showcases why he is still one of the finest Grimdark/ Dark Fantasy writers of all time. The author's world-building and characterisation are as impressive, detailed and unique as ever and the humour presented is amazing and typical Abercrombie.

Point of veiw characters Orso, Savine, and Rikke are the children of Jezal, Glotka, and The Dogman respectively. Some of the old favourite players are featured here but they don't take over the mainstage. The new ensemble is well worth reading about and they organically take other the reins that steer this narrative. Abercrombie still creates bastards you love to hate and that you hate that you love. The author is a genius at creating characters that I actually care about however horrible they may be. My two absolute favourites follow were the so-called awful alcohol-addicted King-in-Waiting Orso who deep down wishes to be a good person and a leader - and also arguably the novel's finest character the sex-addicted entrepreneur Savine Glotka. There a quite a few point of view players throughout and in addition to the aforementioned, Leo, the perfect hero and Broad the formidable warrior with a harsh past are great to follow. Their scenes were stunning to visualise and were the most memorable.

Some of the players may seem two-dimensional initially until Abercrombie deftly expands on their thoughts, emotions and agendas and massages the depth of their personalities into our minds. As mentioned, we see some old legends from the past such as Glotka, The Dogman and Bayaz but the new characters are not in the shadows of their predecessors at all. They truly own the narrative.

I had a brilliant time reading this and returning to Abercrombie's world. Although I haven't completed all of The First Law books and even though you probably could start reading here, I think some prior knowledge of at least one or two of the original trilogy is truly beneficial. A Little Hatred does read like the typical first book in a fantasy epic which may build up to truly monumental and stunning moments but it doesn't really work as a standalone. I believe Abercrombie has completed the remaining two books though and I can't wait for the next entry and to lose myself here again. Bravo. When I have finished all The First Law books I will return to this and the rating may be increased to 5-stars.

PS. This is a more casual review than normal as I finished the novel a little while ago but haven't had the internet for a few weeks. Today is the first time I've been able to get around to reviewing it. ...more

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Aug 16, 2019 Nick T. Borrelli rated it it was amazing

10/10

For those who hold Joe Abercrombie's First Law trilogy in the utmost esteem like I do, you will be very pleased to know that this book is the start of a new series set in that same world. In fact, some of the main characters in A LITTLE HATRED are the children or other family members of characters from First Law. The setting is also a very familiar one, with the action taking place some years after the turbulent events of the first series. All of this makes for a wonderful transition and 10/10

For those who hold Joe Abercrombie's First Law trilogy in the utmost esteem like I do, you will be very pleased to know that this book is the start of a new series set in that same world. In fact, some of the main characters in A LITTLE HATRED are the children or other family members of characters from First Law. The setting is also a very familiar one, with the action taking place some years after the turbulent events of the first series. All of this makes for a wonderful transition and extension of that particular story arc while giving us something very new to chew on.

Welcome back to Angland, where much has changed in the past 30 or so years, and yet in some cases much has not changed. The Union still struggles to maintain stability in a land where marauders and enemy armies continually nip at its heels and test its tenuous rule. There's also quite a bit of back-biting and double-dealing from within which doesn't help matters.

This is a land where power speaks and the best way to gain power is by eliminating your enemies (possibly using underhanded methods if necessary). As with the previous series, there are threats to The Union from outside its borders, the only thing different is the leaders who have now taken up the mantle. The population is growing increasingly bitter and discontented as refugees fleeing from other lands flood into Union territory seeking a reprieve from the corruption and brutality of their own feckless rulers.

Ultimately the refugee infusion causes an untenable situation as extreme resentment creeps in and very disparate cultures are forced into a situation where they are competing for the already limited resources provided by an uncaring government only concerned with its own greed and power. The Union faces potential invasion as a growing army masses to the north and is preparing for war. Can The Union prevail when forces from both outside and inside its ranks are slowly eating away at it like a parasite? Or will the past few decades of relative peace result in it being too soft and ill-prepared for the onslaught that may be about to be unleashed from the north?

A LITTLE HATRED has all of the violence, brutality, world-building and witty humor that we have come to expect from the Lord of Grimdark himself, Joe Abercrombie. I'm avoiding spoilers here for those who haven't read the First Law trilogy, but if you haven't read those yet, what is wrong with you? What I will say is that for those who may have been afraid that Abercrombie was getting a little soft after releasing a YA series a few years ago, rest assured that the master is back and better than ever!

What I found especially gratifying in this book is the way that we were allowed to be connected again to some very familiar characters through their children. For instance there's Savine dan Glokta, daughter of my favorite character in any Fantasy series, hated torturer and inquisitor Sand dan Glokta. Savine has all of the guile and wit of her father but with a tenacity and cunning of her own that makes her a very worthy adversary to those who would cross her. Then there's Rikke, daughter of the battle-tested friend of Logen Ninefingers, Dogman. Rikke has the ability to see the future through a gift called The Long Eye. What she sees in her latest visions are truly horrifying indeed, and could have implications beyond imagining.

These characters plus a multitude of others really make up the strength of this phenomenal story. Abercrombie has always been my favorite author when it comes to writing incredible dialogue, and A LITTLE HATRED shows him in top form once again where that is concerned. I mean the guy can flat-out write brilliant dialogue and his characters are always fleshed out to an amazing degree.

I'm so glad that I was able to revisit this world again and get immersed in such a wonderful book that doesn't rehash any old ground, but rather expands on the past history to give us an entirely new and engaging story to enjoy. A LITTLE HATRED is a can't miss book filled with violence, treachery, suspense, humor, adventure, and that special storytelling knack that can only come from one of the best writers in the genre.

If you want an amazing read that won't disappoint, pick this one up and read it cover to cover. The more I read Joe Abercrombie's books, the higher he moves up in the pantheon of the best of the best in Fantasy. Well done Lord Grimdark! If this first book is any indication of what is to come, then I eagerly anticipate the next installment with much enthusiasm indeed.

Just a quick note, if you are wondering whether you can jump right into this book without reading his First Law trilogy I would say yes and no. Yes it is a totally self-contained story and you can absolutely read this book and enjoy it on its own merits. However, if you truly want to get the best reading experience from A LITTLE HATRED, I highly recommend reading the First Law trilogy. It will give you a much deeper understanding of events and circumstances while also providing valuable insight into the characters. ...more

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Jun 03, 2019 Myke Cole rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

A Little Hatred would be a remarkable book in ANY genre. Fantasy fans are beyond fortunate that Joe chose this one.

Abercrombie returns to the world of The First Law without missing a beat, displaying the same incredible empathy, evocative prose, and intensely relatable characters, all navigating one of the most intricate and well-constructed plot mazes I’ve ever had the pleasure to navigate.

Seriously. This book is so good, it makes me want to give up writing. That is the highest compliment I can ...more

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Aug 21, 2019 Holly (Holly Hearts Books) rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: review-copies, own, favorites

“Wars may be won by the clever, but battles have to be fought by the brave.”

I’m confident in saying this is Joe Abercrombie’s best work.

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Jul 16, 2019 Ed McDonald rated it it was amazing

Sometimes you get sent a book written by one of the people whose work you do your best not to rip off. I was sent an advanced reader copy by Gollancz. Here’s what I thought.

Zero spoilers.

For an author, the problem with reading the books of another author whom you kind of grew up on, is that (a) you’re really worried about whether their work will stand up, like when you try and watch The Princess Bride with someone who has never seen it before and really hope they’ll like it, and (b) if you’re Sometimes you get sent a book written by one of the people whose work you do your best not to rip off. I was sent an advanced reader copy by Gollancz. Here’s what I thought.

Zero spoilers.

For an author, the problem with reading the books of another author whom you kind of grew up on, is that (a) you’re really worried about whether their work will stand up, like when you try and watch The Princess Bride with someone who has never seen it before and really hope they’ll like it, and (b) if you’re writing anything of your own at the time, you have to be really careful that your characters don’t mysteriously start sounding like Abercrombie’s. As a writer one can’t help but absorb what you’re taking in. You have to be realistic about these things.

The strength of Abercrombie’s writing has always been in the depth and realisation of the characters. Those who’ve followed The First Law since its beginnings will be well aware that every key view point character is immediately recognisable. This is a really deep part of the storytelling, but when you think back on these memorable players, you know what they look like physically, how they would react to any given stimuli, even how they talk. These characters live and breathe on the page. Sometimes it’s hard to imagine that they aren’t actually memoirs.

A Little Hatred serves up quite a lot of new characters, and every character in this book stands out as clearly as a blade in the neck. Abercrombie pulls his familiar trick, of showing us the characters in their proto-form – which one could be mistaken for thinking of as one dimensional – before slowly fleshing them out. The denial, the self-loathing, the lack of self awareness, all those awful, negative, and frighteningly real feelings we all have in our moments of self-doubt come creeping in and twist your understanding of who these people are, and what they do. What’s particularly surprising is the way that you can start off enjoying the characters, while rather hoping that they get what they deserve, to really feeling for them – even a character as corrupted and morally bankrupt as Savine.

I don’t want to spoil the reveals of the familiar faces as they pop up through the book, but it’s a credit to this novel that while we get to say “Hi” to some of the old favourites, they are not running the show. A Little Hatred is a book about a new generation and they get to show their own lives, their own troubles, and yes of course all that good stuff sending people to the mud, torture, bad sex and what not.

There is a lot of shagging in this one, and since I’m pretty much sure you’ve read Abercrombie before, you’re likely also familiar with bad morning breath, trousers getting tangled up and so on. I like a good dose of romance in my reading, but I’m not exactly sure that this is dates and flowers. But then, what does one expect?

I particularly also enjoy how we’re constantly reminded and informed by all of the jaded, world-weary characters about how stabbing people in the back is the best option, and how violence never solves anything, and that nothing was ever achieved with a sword blah blah and we readers nod along feeling all smug because yeah, tell it like it is man! And then we get into the Circle and we’re baying for blood just like every Northerner and secretly hoping that someone’s going to earn their Name.

One of the curiosities about this novel however is that this is the kind of novel that you can only write when you’re already a megastar in the fantasy literature world. There’s not really an actual single plot running through the narrative. We see a lot of characters, and they all have their adventures, and while towards the end of the book they get tied together, when I turned the last page I still wasn’t entirely sure what the book is about. The stability of the Union, maybe? Although we’re never really asked to care about it. It’s more like a waltz through the First Law world, taking in a little here, a little there, and watching glorious characters make a huge mess of everything.

Of course, I’m pretty sure that there’s a current of narrative that runs beneath it all, especially as Abercrombie has finished all three installments before releasing the first. It’s testament to the depth and strength of the characters in this story that I’m already pretty keen to get my hands on the next one, even if I couldn’t actually tell you what the story is actually about. And maybe that’s kind of the point. Life rarely has squared off endings. Maybe not all stories need them too.

There are some really interesting themes running through A Little Hatred. I was at times reminded of the Levellers and other reformation groups in the 17th century (not the indie folk band). Questions about division of wealth remain suitably muddy throughout. Perhaps one of my highlights was when Rikke picks up what is essentially a copy of The Daily Mail, or the reflection of Brexiteer attitudes from the mouth of one of the principal cast. There’s some interesting feelings for the reader as they see some of the rich made poor, some of the poor made rich, and how we feel about it in each case.

Overall, A Little Hatred shows Abercrombie at his blood-and-dirt best. Characters that come to life on the page, bloody showdowns in the Circle, backstabbing, intrigue, loving and hating and dying all rolled into one infinitely digestible package. You will love to hate and then hate to love these people, characters who are once flawed and perfect. With A Little Hatred, Abercrombie proves that he’s still the one to beat. ...more

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Sep 11, 2019 Mogsy (MMOGC) rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: fantasy, arcs-and-galleys, review-copy

4.5 of 5 stars at The BiblioSanctum https://bibliosanctum.com/2019/09/16/...

It’s been quite a few years since we had a novel set in the First Law World, and returning to it was a bit like coming home to a comfortable place—well, at least as homey and comforting as it can possibly be when it comes to a Joe Abercrombie book, but you get my meaning. And one thing is certain, A Little Hatred is in every way a story you can expect from the Lord of Grimdark, essentially told in a gritty style heavily 4.5 of 5 stars at The BiblioSanctum https://bibliosanctum.com/2019/09/16/...

It’s been quite a few years since we had a novel set in the First Law World, and returning to it was a bit like coming home to a comfortable place—well, at least as homey and comforting as it can possibly be when it comes to a Joe Abercrombie book, but you get my meaning. And one thing is certain, A Little Hatred is in every way a story you can expect from the Lord of Grimdark, essentially told in a gritty style heavily emphasizing the bleakness of a world characterized with brutality and violence. And indeed, Abercrombie’s fans will be pleased to find these pages filled with his familiar brand of madness and chaos, in equal parts gory and comical.

But an important note before we begin: while A Little Hatred kicks off a new trilogy called The Age of Madness, in context it is actually the seventh full-length novel set in the greater First Law sequence. Although you can technically begin your adventure here, you will be missing out on many books’ worth of background information that would make reading A Little Hatred a lot more enjoyable, not to mention a lot less confusing. The First Law trilogy would be where I would start, and the bare minimum I would recommend having under your belt before you start this novel which is set roughly thirty years after the events of Last Argument of Kings. Much about the world has changed, but we do return to some familiar names and places.

Once more, we are thrown into the middle of a conflict between the North and the Union. Northmen, being Northmen, are rallying behind a new leader and setting their sights on an invasion, while in Adua, the seat of the realm, a new threat is secretly brewing in silence and gathering strength. A new generation of characters are at the helm, beginning with Rikke, daughter of the Dogman. Gifted (or cursed, depending on your perspective) with the Long Eye, a kind of second sight that allows her to glimpse the future, Rikke foresees something terrible and spends most of the beginning of the novel fleeing from the vicious Stour Nightfall and his men. Meanwhile at the border, Leo the Young Lion, the ballsy son of Finree and Harod dan Brock from The Heroes, is in the middle of the action fighting his own battle against the hordes of invading Northmen even as he dreams of the fame and glory of bringing Nightfall down himself.

At the capital, however, the situation is as lackadaisical as ever with the feckless Crown Prince Orso up to his usual self. A spoiled and pampered playboy, he’s aware that he’s a disappointment to everyone around him but is nonetheless perfectly happy to carry on with his philandering ways. That is, until his current dalliance with the beautiful and sophisticated Savine dan Glokta turns into something more and makes him realize he is not the man he wants to be. Savine is of course the daughter of the infamous Sand dan Glokta, a character whom fans of Joe Abercrombie should know very well. But while the king’s Arch Lector has a role to play in this one, it is Savine who really takes the reins and drives the story. A brilliant and shrewd entrepreneur, she sees the burgeoning dawn of new machine age as an opportunity to profit from the increased industry, but with the resulting worker rebellion causing violence to erupt across the realm, Savine quickly finds more trouble than she bargained for.

Why did I love this book? Let me count the ways. First, the characters, which are as ever on point. I can always depend on an Abercrombie novel to wow me with its cast of colorful personalities, and of course this was no exception. The individual perspectives of Savine, Orso, Leo, Rikke and others combined and intertwined to make up backbone of this fascinating narrative, and as the story progressed, all the threads became increasingly more complex and addictive. A Little Hatred is clearly this next generation’s chance to shine, and for those of us who loved the earlier books, it’s hard not to feel a rush of exhilaration and no small bit of concern for the children of some of our favorite characters as we watch them struggle to find themselves and forge their own way in this harsh and unforgiving world. Abercrombie is also known for putting his protagonists through the wringer, and so you can be sure there will be plenty of cruel emotional conflict as well as perseverance and growth through dangerous challenges.

Which brings me to the story. Rife with mayhem and moving pieces, the plot is practically brimming with action, with the Union beset on multiple fronts. From within, a revolution threatens instability and causes tensions to flare up into violent confrontation, while from without, the borders of the realm are being pummeled mercilessly by the invading forces of Stour Nightfall. Readers get to see all facets of these conflicts from multiple viewpoints, and in pure Abercrombie fashion, nothing is ever clear-cut or simple.

And so lastly, I want to talk about the world-building. This is the world of the First Law as we know it and love it, full of gritty detail and atmosphere. Needless to say, it was a joy to revisit this setting again, to witness how it has changed in so many ways and yet has remained the same in all the important respects. Abercrombie has created an undeniably living and breathing world, one whose wonders and grandeurs shine through even in all its brutality and darkness. Life is a strange and complicated business after all, with nothing ever remaining static, so you can also expect to see this kind of dynamism in A Little Hatred. One of the prime examples can be seen in the social environment, which plays a pretty big role in this novel, influencing character motivations and decisions, as well as being affected by them in turn.

So if you have been following this series and author, don’t stop now; A Little Hatred is a novel you will no doubt love and fully embrace the moment you start it because it is pure Joe Abercrombie. Sure, I haven’t loved all his First Law books, with The Heroes being first to come to mind, but I have to say this one feels solid and it speaks to me in a way that makes me feel confident for the future direction of the trilogy. Even if you haven’t read any of the previous books, I think this can easily hook you. It is simply a novel that commands your attention and keeps you compulsively turning the pages to see where it will take you. For a series starter, it has established a seriously impressive foundation, and I am looking forward to the next installment. ...more

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Aug 30, 2019 Lukasz rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: grimdark, dark-fantasy, disabled-protagonist

Say one thing for Joe Abercrombie, say he’s a hell of a writer. The First Law trilogy captivated me from the first page of The Blade Itself with fascinating characters, a great intrigue and thrilling unpredictability. A Little Hatred takes place 30 years after the events of Heroes.

The Northmen are invading the Union. The industrialization has been gaining momentum for a while. Business-savvy individuals make fortunes at the cost of unprivileged masses. Savine dan Glokta, the ruthless daughter of Say one thing for Joe Abercrombie, say he’s a hell of a writer. The First Law trilogy captivated me from the first page of The Blade Itself with fascinating characters, a great intrigue and thrilling unpredictability. A Little Hatred takes place 30 years after the events of Heroes.

The Northmen are invading the Union. The industrialization has been gaining momentum for a while. Business-savvy individuals make fortunes at the cost of unprivileged masses. Savine dan Glokta, the ruthless daughter of the feared chief inquisitor, controls large chunks of industry and excels at parlor games. Her secret lover, Prince Orso, doesn’t lack charm or charisma but prefers spending his life inebriated in brothels than doing something of any worth.

In the North a hotheaded warrior, Leo dan Brock (known as the young lion) tries to stop the Northmen and dreams about beating their leader, a psychopathic Stour Nightfall (knows as A Great Wolf), in the Circle. Both Stour and Leo consider Bloody-Nine as a role model, go figure. Dogman’s daughter, Rikke, gifted with Long Eye foresees troubles on all fronts and she’s right. It’s Abercrombie’s world after all and his view of life is dark. Lord Grimdark’s trademark black humor and wit make the story enjoyable and addictive but when you look past them, you’ll witness another tragedy developing right before your eyes.

While A Little Hatred is character-driven and character-focused, things do happen. Plots and subplots converge, but without strong and distinct voices of the POV characters, they would seem generic. Battles, morally ambiguous characters, twisted magic - we’ve seen it before. Abercrombie’s characterization skills, brilliant inner monologues of his characters and sparky dialogue make it unique and unforgettable. He destroys his characters with perfect timing and no scruples.

I consider Sand dan Glokta the best character in modern fantasy. His daughter, Savine, has the potential to follow in his footsteps. Like her father, she’s morally gray. She’s intelligent, manipulative, well-educated, and brilliant. She’ll do anything to get on top. Nothing and no one can stop her. Except for the harsh reality she’s never experienced before. Raised in a wealthy home, wearing clothes worth more than yearly wages of most people, she considers herself more powerful and strong than she really is. Her brutal clash with the reality will leave you dazed and confused. Fast-paced, violent scenes presenting the insurrection in the Valbeck boil with rage and are among the best I’ve read this year in any book.

Some chapters come with a heavy dose of graphic descriptions of violence, and that’s something potential readers should know. The author doesn’t hold back but you already know this, right? And I sincerely hope you don’t expect a happy romance, do you? Because if you do, I have bad news. You have to be realistic about these things.

Abercrombie juggles multiple plotlines and points of view with gusto. Each arc is thrilling and memorable. They start to overlap near the end but you need to remember A Little Hatred doesn’t work as a standalone - a lot of what happens is really just structural work for what comes later. But is this really an issue when it’s so addictive to read? I don’t think so.

A Little Hatred is full of adventure, thrills, and twists and turns. With fully realized and fascinating characters that keep the story moving, I just couldn’t put id down. If you loved First Law trilogy prepare for a feast and enter The Age of Madness. ...more

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Jul 04, 2019 Fares rated it really liked it

I'll give this 4 stars, but it's like a Schrodinger 4 where it can be a 5 and a 1 at the same time.
I sure love putting myself into rating dilemmas don't I?!
I hate one small part of this, not even a part but one thing, but again this is dark fantasy and this should be expected shouldn't it?
I guess this all depends on how it goes in book 2.

But for all of you Dark Fantasy lovers out there, this was awesome. My problem with it is more personal views than anything.
The writing, the characters, the ...more

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Sep 05, 2019 James Islington rated it it was amazing

I’m not going to write a long review for this, because if you’re an existing fan of the world of The First Law, it’s pretty simple – just go and get it. It’s a brilliant addition.

For those unfamiliar with Joe Abercrombie’s work, The First Law trilogy - of which this new series is a continuation, one generation down the track - is basically the epitome of ‘grimdark’: a gritty, low magic setting and a story with plenty of real-world swearing, sex scenes, and (at best) morally ambiguous ...more

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Nov 03, 2019 Milda Page Runner rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: black-humor, dark-and-gritty, fantasy, favourites, smart-and-thought-provoking, snarky-sarcastic-hero

Bloody awesome! This book is everything I expected and more.
I suppose if you read any of the First Law books you won’t need my encouragement to grab it. If you haven’t… personally I wouldn’t recommend starting with this one. Plenty of references to past events and many old faces show up on the screen – you’d be missing out on too much context and irony. In my opinion you need at least First Law trilogy and the Heroes to fully appreciate this story.
Whilst it’s not the end the story (obviously) it ...more

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Oct 05, 2019 Silvana rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: sl-sword-challenge-2019, fyeahfantasy, kindle-google, mine-mine-mine, reading-with-friends, my-hugo-2020-noms, sff-2019-reading-challenge, series-i-follow

By the dead, this is the best fantasy novel I read this year. Six out of five bloody stars.

This novel is one helluva breathless ride. Joe Abercrombie is one of the most entertaining writers I've ever read. Don't expect too much literary, poetic stuff. He has carved his own niche. Like most of his characters, his writing is lean, mean, cheeky and exhilarating at the same time.

Show-don't-tell principle is applied with very little exposition, supported by great pacing. I never feel bored. I lose ...more

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Sep 08, 2019 Holly (The Grimdragon) rated it it was amazing

Shelves: the-infinite-library, i-will-go-down-with-this-ship, i-am-a-bookcover-ho

“She knew with one twitch of a sword she might lose her lover, her home, her future. People can be so tough, survive so much hunger and cold and disappointment, take beatings you wouldn’t believe and come out stronger. But they can be so fragile, too. One sharp piece of metal is all it takes to turn a man into mud. One little stroke of bad luck. One ill-judged whisper.”

Say one thing for Joe Abercrombie, say he makes me want to smash his books into my face over and over again because they are so ...more

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Oct 22, 2019 Michael Sliter rated it really liked it

Four Stars

Expectations are a funny thing. From authors with a track record of utter success, who resonate with you on multiple levels, you simply set your expectations higher than they should be. Higher than you set for other authors, and you expect the world. It's no surprise, then, that you end up being a little let down from time to time. Just a little, though.

A Little Hatred would probably be closer to a 5 star for another author, but the weight of what came before somewhat overwhelms it. Four Stars

Expectations are a funny thing. From authors with a track record of utter success, who resonate with you on multiple levels, you simply set your expectations higher than they should be. Higher than you set for other authors, and you expect the world. It's no surprise, then, that you end up being a little let down from time to time. Just a little, though.

A Little Hatred would probably be closer to a 5 star for another author, but the weight of what came before somewhat overwhelms it. Not a single character in this book compares to the helpless complexity of Glotka, or the sick-to-change-himself Logen Ninefingers. For much of the story, the characters felt more predictable, like more of the same side characters from the past books. The various revelations (like the impact of the banking industry, or the main character relationships that you already knew about, if you were paying attention in Book 3) feel heavy-handed, and the grimdarkness is somewhat shoved down your throat (hundreds or thousands of words are dedicated to pollution). A Little Hatred just feels less original than The First Law.

Honestly, I feel like a lot of it was me and my relentless comparisons. A better man would have read this as an independent work.

That said, a four star Abercrombie book is better than most dross out there. I love the world. I love the change into the industrial setting. I love that the world still has that hopeless and dirty feel that Abercrombie is known for. I like most of the characters, and I want to grow to love them. I think the biggest limiting factor was there was about 7-8 povs by 20% into the book, versus the deeper dives from the first trilogy. The story itself was fairly standard fantasy fare, but it was still well done. I'll likely never get bored of the wars in the north, which were a highlight for me.

I'll be honest in that I want more Glotka. I'm stuck in nostalgia mode, here. I would LOVE the inevitable cameo of Logan Ninefingers, even if he is in his 60s. He'll still be badass. But, I also want to love the new characters as much, and will desperately be awaiting book 2 in anticipation of just that. Before they Were Hanged was a slow start that reasonated with me, and I have a feeling that Age of Madness will go in the same direction. Abercrombie is just too damn good. ...more

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Aug 06, 2019 Liviu rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: read_2019, top_25_2019_books, 2019_release_read, genre-fantasy

One of my highly expected novels of 2019, The First Law: The Next Generation Volume 1, aka A Little Hatred, was even better than expected; clearly a first volume so the big picture is still unclear, but lots of things happen and there is a great ending that makes it a complete volume independent of sequels, though of course much is promised.

There are 6 main characters, all children of the original first law books (most of the original characters still are around at least to start with).

The 3 One of my highly expected novels of 2019, The First Law: The Next Generation Volume 1, aka A Little Hatred, was even better than expected; clearly a first volume so the big picture is still unclear, but lots of things happen and there is a great ending that makes it a complete volume independent of sequels, though of course much is promised.

There are 6 main characters, all children of the original first law books (most of the original characters still are around at least to start with).

The 3 leaders to be, the lion, Leo dan Brock, whose mother Finree is currently the acting governor of Angland, the wolf, Stour Nightfall, son of Black Calder and nephew and heir of Scale Ironhand king of the North, who has decided that time has come to take back the protectorate still led by an old weary Dogman, and the lamb, prince Orso, son and heir of Jezal the first (Jezal having a few great cameos) who has an unmatched reputation for laziness, cowardice, uselessness and immorality.

On the girl side, we have the tough Rikke, daughter of the Dogman, epileptic but with visions that may turn out to be quite true and important, the even tougher Vick (dan Teufel), daughter of the iron mine camps and revolutionary to be and of course ruthless Savine, financier, businesswoman, socialite, founder of the new scientific Solar society, patroness of science, technology and inventions (only for profit of course) and daughter of the most feared man in the Union, inquisition chief Arch Lector Glotka.

They all have memorable parts to play, wars to fight, revolutions to foment or escape, and no less dangerous balls and feasts at the courts of the North and of the Union to attend.

With a superb cast including Yoru Sulfur, Bayaz, Calder, Finree dan Brock, Jezal and Terez, various other new (most notably Zuri, Savine's Gurkish personal "secretary", former Sergeant Gunnar Broad), and old characters from the First Law original books (Superior Pike, Wonderful and many, many others), the novel is even darker and more cynical than the first series, the body count keeps rising and overall it is Abercrombie at his best; top fantasy of the year to date ...more

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Sep 10, 2019 Charlie - A Reading Machine rated it it was amazing

A Little Hatred (The Age of Madness #1) by Joe Abercrombie is set in the same world as his magnificent First Law series and boy is it a treat to be back.

“The chimneys of industry rise over Adua and the world seethes with new opportunities. But old scores run deep as ever.

On the blood-soaked borders of Angland, Leo dan Brock struggles to win fame on the battlefield, and defeat the marauding armies of Stour Nightfall. He hopes for help from the crown. But King Jezal's son, the feckless Prince ...more

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Jul 17, 2019 Peter McLean rated it it was amazing

Shelves: fantasy

Welcome back to The Union, some twenty years later. Welcome to the industrial revolution, to a new world of belching smokestacks and Dickensian deprivation, of child labour and urchin chimney sweeps, cotton lung and the workhouse. Welcome to the dark Satanic mills of progress.

I've always been impressed by Abercrombie's ability to switch from laugh-out-loud hilarity to utter horror and back again in the space of a few pages, but in this book it's stronger than ever. Never knowing which you're ...more

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Nov 24, 2019 Ivan rated it it was amazing

Shelves: fantasy, favorites

4.8 stars. Review will probably come at some point.

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Sep 24, 2019 kartik narayanan rated it really liked it

This is another classic Joe Abercrombie. Brutal, gritty, poignant.
But I found it to be a bit of a slow burn. The story takes its time introducing characters and builds up pace only towards the middle. Then it turns into a fast express with a satisfying payoff towards the end.

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Oct 17, 2019 Esme rated it it was amazing

I will be lucky if I read 70 books by the end of the year… it’s sort of sad because in years past I’ve read up and over 200. I’m running way behind on reading and even further behind on reviewing. I feel like I’m one of the last people to review this, so if you’ve already read this I’d be interested in hearing your thoughts.

Some authors will experiment with different writing styles, tones, themes, or genres and it’s almost as if you’re reading a totally different author with each series. Others ...more

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Sep 11, 2019 S. Naomi Scott rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: 2019, netgalley

++ DISCLAIMER: I received an advanced reading copy of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley in return for an honest review. ++

I was a little concerned going into this book as I’d already seen a number of reviews saying that despite it being the first of a new series, you really had to have read Abercrombie’s First Law trilogy in order to fully appreciate this new novel from the self-appointed Lord of Grimdark. Given that I’m a veritable Abercrombie virgin, I was worried that I’d miss ++ DISCLAIMER: I received an advanced reading copy of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley in return for an honest review. ++

I was a little concerned going into this book as I’d already seen a number of reviews saying that despite it being the first of a new series, you really had to have read Abercrombie’s First Law trilogy in order to fully appreciate this new novel from the self-appointed Lord of Grimdark. Given that I’m a veritable Abercrombie virgin, I was worried that I’d miss out on some hidden plot lines or fail to grasp the mysterious twists and turns that link back to his earlier works. Having now finished the book I think I can say with some authority that even if you’re as new to Abercrombie as I was you can read and enjoy this delightfully refreshing novel.

Set several decades after the events of The First Law, this novel takes place in a world in the grip of the early years of an industrial revolution. Machines are being used to gradually replace the labour of the masses, leaving those masses out of work and embittered. A rebellion is forming, and it is up to the agents of Grand Lector dan Glokta to end the revolution before it begins. Meanwhile, on the border of the Union there’s a war brewing, and the armies of Stour Nightfall threaten to bring down the hard-won Protectorate of the North.

What we have here is a deliciously well-written novel that manages to bring something a little different to the fantasy genre. There are still some pretty blatant elements of the magical and mystical presented within the narrative, most notably in the character of Rikke and her prophetic Long Eye, but then there’s also the treatment of the rise of the machines. Here we get to see both sides of the social divide, with sympathetic characters being drawn from both the privileged noble classes and the downtrodden working classes of the revolution.

The storytelling itself is phenomenal, but it’s in the character development and the growth of the narrative that Abercrombie seems to excel. Even the more repellent characters are presented in a delightfully readable manner, and the gradual unveiling of the manipulations going on behind the scenes leaves the reader with plenty of questions for book two and beyond. By the end of this book I was left with no doubt that there’s a lot more going on than this first chapter has revealed, and look forward to the next instalment with bated breath.

I daresay I might have gotten more out of the narrative if I’d previously read The First Law as other reviewers seem to suggest, but even without that prior knowledge this is still a remarkably strong first instalment and racks up a strong four and a half stars as far as I’m concerned. ...more

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Sep 28, 2019 Jamie rated it it was amazing

As another reviewer said, Abercrombie has still got it, and then some! What a fantastic start to the new First Law series, with a fascinating historical backdrop centering on the social upheaval at the dawn of the industrial revolution (a theme that resonates today, at the dawn of a technological revolution fueled by automation and artificial intelligence). There's some oblique social commentary in this context. Or maybe not. But in any case, the real point is that it sets the stage for some ...more

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Oct 18, 2019 Twerking To Beethoven rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: all-time-favs

Wow, just wow. It's taken me a while to finish this book as I've been awfully busy of lately but, at the end of the day, it allowed me to savour "A Little Hatred" one line at a time and, once again, Abercrombie delivered. Fantastic book, truly satisfying with a couple of mind-blowing moments towards the end.

Five glorious stars. One of the best novels of 2019, me thinks.

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Oct 28, 2019 Sir Anni rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

6 Stars :) ...more

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Sep 26, 2019 Pallav rated it it was amazing

Shelves: awesome-books

Simply put, book of the year. No two ways about it. And for a no spoiler review, keep reading.

Abercrombie is at the top of his game. He struts into the circle like a ringmaster who knows he has the lions trained to follow his every twitch. He makes, words, characters, and situations jump through hoops and obstacles like a magician. This is peak craftsmanship at work. Nothing wasted, nothing extra, all words where they need to be, all characters as fleshed out as they can be. You will love them, ...more

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Nov 16, 2019 The Tattooed Book Geek (Drew). rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

This review can also be found on my blog The Tattooed Book Geek: https://thetattooedbookgeek.wordpress...

A Little Hatred, the first book in Abercrombie’s new The Age of Madness trilogy sees the author return to the world of his The First Law trilogy. I’ve seen a few people asking whether or not you can read A Little Hatred without having first read The First Law trilogy. And, I thought, as someone who has read The First Law trilogy and the subsequent standalone books that take place in the same This review can also be found on my blog The Tattooed Book Geek: https://thetattooedbookgeek.wordpress...

A Little Hatred, the first book in Abercrombie’s new The Age of Madness trilogy sees the author return to the world of his The First Law trilogy. I’ve seen a few people asking whether or not you can read A Little Hatred without having first read The First Law trilogy. And, I thought, as someone who has read The First Law trilogy and the subsequent standalone books that take place in the same world that I would share my take on the subject. For me, I’d say that yes, you can easily read, enjoy and that you will thoroughly relish your time spent with A Little Hatred without having read the original The First Law trilogy or the standalone books. Just go read it, experience Abercrombie and love it, it is that damn good.

However, while not essential to your reading pleasure having that prior knowledge gained from the original trilogy (and to a far lesser extent the standalone books) is beneficial and serves to offer a richer and more rewarding reading experience. A Little Hatred features characters who are the next generation, the children of characters from The First Law trilogy. Thirty years have passed since the ending of The First Law trilogy and the characters and their deeds are etched in the memory of the world. They are still talked about (for example, young warriors still idolise and worship the legendary Bloody-Nine) and they have cast a long shadow that is felt in this new age, if you will, this dawning age of madness.😉

The events of the past and your lineage, your parentage are a burden that many carry forward and that echoes down the years. There are events and people mentioned in A Little Hatred that are the past and what is now the history of the world. To a new reader, they are just that. They are the history of the world of the book that the reader is currently reading, the events and people who have shaped the present and the current time. But, if you’ve read The First Law trilogy then, while yes, the events and people mentioned as history are still just that. You were there, you bore witness and you read about many of those events, those deeds and those people as that history unfolded. That knowledge, that recognition of names adds an extra layer to the story and to the world in A Little Hatred. An added depth to what you are reading and an emotional connection to the people from the past when they are mentioned. Or, when they appear as some are still alive, make appearances and have roles in A Little Hatred. Don’t mistake me, A Little Hatred is its own bloody, brutal and grim beast and it doesn’t repeat or retread over old ground. Yes, at times you are walking over the bones of the past. But, that past is used as a building block and a foundation to expand upon and grow. A Little Hatred is very much about the new cast of memorable characters and the unfolding story that they are involved in.

The Union is facing trouble on duel fronts from within and without. Times are changing and society is embracing the future. Modernity and progress abound and the Union is in the midst of an industrial revolution. Factories, foundries, mills and machines are replacing man. Power, profit, greed and wealth reign supreme with the rich few getting richer while the vast majority of the populace, the poor are getting poorer. With refugees flooding into the cities and one machine doing the work of ten men every day there are more and more people looking for work and not enough jobs to go around. Those jobs that are available are akin to slave labour and involve working long and gruelling hours for a pittance. Industry is polluting the rivers, poisoning the air and the workers live in squalor with poverty, sickness and starvation rife amongst them. People can only lose so much before bitterness and resentment start to fester. Before something has to break, to give and the fires of discontent are being stoked and the seeds of rebellion sown by a group known as the Breakers. While in the untamed and wild North they cling to tradition like a babe to the teat. One such northern tradition seems to be the endless cycle of war and once again, the North has invaded the borders of the Union.

The story in A Little Hatred is complex, fast-paced and sprawling. Featuring battles, betrayal, conspiracies, politics, revelations, treachery and violence. it is never anything less than being both hugely entertaining and totally gripping. There are lots of connected and interwoven parts that unspool over multiple locations and are told through the several different and distinctive PoV characters of Leo dan Brock, Prince Orso, Savine, Rikke, Vick, Clover and Broad. I’m hard-pressed to pick a favourite PoV character as I enjoyed reading about them all. But, after finishing the book and looking back. I’d have to say that my favourites were Leo dan Brock, the Young Lion, the headstrong and impulsive young warrior who is fighting against Stour Nightfall, the Great Wolf and the invading army of the North. Rikke, who is forthright, honest and who is, well, Rikke is just Rikke with no false facade or mask and she is the daughter of the Dogman. Rikke is struggling to come to terms with the gift of the Long Eye and what the glimmers, glimpses and visions she sees portent with the aid of the older hillwoman Isern-i-Phail. Crown Prince Orso. Orso is the foppish, indolent and unreliable son of High King Jezal who spends most of his time in a miasmic haze of drink, drugs and whores but has a vague desire to both be and to do better. And, finally Savine dan Glokta. Yes, if you just smiled at the mention of Rikke being the daughter of ‘the Dogman‘ and Orso being the son of ‘Jezal‘ two names known to all who have read the original The First Law trilogy. Then, at the mention of the name ‘dan Glokta‘ you will be absolutely ecstatic. Savine is an astute and ruthless businesswoman. She is ambitious, cunning, power-hungry and shares many of the same traits as her father. But, she is also very much her own woman too.

The cast of characters in A Little Hatred are a multifarious and engaging bunch and there is a depth to them all. Sometimes that depth takes a while to show, to be revealed but as the bone beneath the skin, it is there. They are fully-fleshed, real, relatable and flawed. They struggle internally, toil with their actions, the consequences of those actions and their choices. They have their own agendas, motivations and they often straddle the line of morality. Throughout the book you see them change and grow shaped by events and actions.

One of the things that really stood out for me was the differences and the dynamics between the older characters and the younger, especially with the warriors which is fantastic. The older characters are veterans of many battles, they are world-weary, they have seen and lived through a lot and they have the scars, often both physically and mentally to show for their advanced years. Simply put, the young don’t. The old-timers know the way of things, understand the world and they have a more measured approach. The old see the world through often cynical and always jaded eyes. For them, they know that the world is a violent place but they don’t yearn for that violence. Instead, they know it as the inevitable outcome when things truly turn bad. Whereas, the young pups see through fresh eyes. They are foolhardy and reckless. They rush in and don’t think about the lasting consequences of their actions. The young see battle, see war as a way to fame, to become someone, to make a name for themselves and to establish their legend. As such, they crave bloodshed, are eager for violence and they still have tough lessons to be learned from a world that is cruel and harsh.

Some of the characters you will love, some you will hate and, at times you will love the ones you really should hate. There are bastards galore in A Little Hatred and you might even say that A Little Hatred is a brutal yet beautiful bastard of a book.

Abercrombie’s writing is of the highest quality making A Little Hatred effortlessly readable. There are astute, clever and wry observations, emotion, moments that are poignant and a gallows type of dark humour with a droll and sarcastic edge. A special mention deserves to go to the dialogue between characters too which is nothing short of outstanding.

The fighting is chaotic. Like a churning and dramatic maelstrom that is full of weighted carnage with blows and wounds that you feel. Abercrombie is a master at writing cinematic and visceral action scenes and there is a couple of absolutely stellar action setpieces, sublime in their depiction that spring to bloody life in A Little Hatred.

Regardless of whether A Little Hatred is your first Abercrombie book and you go in blind as to what to expect. Or, if you are a seasoned reader A Little Hatred finds Abercrombie on fine form and at the top of his game. A Little Hatred was one of my (and most other fantasy fans) most anticipated books of the year and it didn’t disappoint. It is a book that will garner Abercrombie a legion of new fans and a book that will make old fans remember why they originally fell in love with his work. It is absolutely spectacular and one of the best books that I have read in 2019. ...more

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About Joe Abercrombie

Joe Abercrombie

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Joe Abercrombie was educated at Lancaster Royal Grammar School and Manchester University, where he studied psychology. He 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. It was published by Gollancz in 2006 and was followed by two other books in The First Law trilogy ...more