A Goodreads user asked:

Hi! Do you have to read the First Law trilogy before reading this? Or can it be read as a standalone? Thanks!

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11 years ago
10 answers

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Katherine I read Best Served Cold first and it totally works as a stand-alone. I mean, there were bits that made me want to read the trilogy for more depth but nowhere was I left confused for lack of reading the previous books.
I'm now making my way through the trilogy and having read this one first is lending me an interesting perspective. It didn't ruin anything for sure.

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ColinJ This was the first Abercrombie novel I read. And while I still loved it I realise how much detail and fun stuff that went over my head because I hadn't read the trilogy first.

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Miles Having read the First Law trilogy first, I think it increased my understanding and therefore enjoyment of the world and characters. While it can certainly be read on its own, I would say reading the First Law trilogy first will definitely improve your experience, but heck, it might even be fun to read the trilogy after. Just read the trilogy, whatever you do. This book is good. The trilogy is awesome.

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Chad Freling I would recommend reading the First Law trilogy first, but you technically don't have to. There are a couple main characters in Best Served Cold that had smaller parts in the original series. Vice Versa, a couple characters show up that had large roles previously, and some scenes won't make complete sense without knowing their story.

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Ben Washington I bought it, unaware that it had ties to any other series. Read it, loved it, made me want to read the First Law Trilogy. I didn't lack any understanding, it stands well on its own.

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Kateregga Micheal It isn't necessary, but reading the First Law Trilogy will make Best served cold so much better.

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Baronation If you do, this will be much more enjoyable.

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Tom I read this first, and loved it. IMO it is his best book. But I had to go back and reread it after finishing the trilogy, i got so much more out of it, and really enjoyed when a character or reference would show up. I would suggest reading the trilogy first. Just make sure you get to this book. It is fantastic.

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