The Devils by Joe Abercrombie, released on May 13, 2025, marks the beginning of a new trilogy that blends grimdark fantasy with dark comedy. Set in an alternate medieval Europe, the novel introduces readers to a world teeming with monstrous characters, political intrigue, and theological satire. Abercrombie, known for his sharp prose and complex characters, delivers a narrative that is both action-packed and thought-provoking.
Plot Overview: A Mission of Monstrous Proportions
The story centers around Brother Diaz, a devout yet naive cleric who is unexpectedly appointed as the vicar of the clandestine Chapel of Holy Expediency. His new congregation comprises a motley crew of supernatural beings: a vampire, a werewolf, a necromancer, an elf, and others. Their divine mission is to escort Alex, a street thief with a mysterious past, to claim the Serpent Throne of Troy. As they journey across a perilous landscape, they face numerous challenges, including rival claimants to the throne, internal conflicts, and the ever-looming threat of the apocalypse.
World-Building: A Theological and Political Labyrinth
Abercrombie crafts a richly detailed world that mirrors and distorts historical and religious elements. The Sacred City, reminiscent of a decaying Rome, is rife with corruption and religious zealotry. The Church, led by a female pope, wields power through secretive orders and manipulative politics. Magic is both revered and outlawed, used clandestinely by the very institutions that condemn it. This setting serves as a backdrop for exploring themes of faith, power, and hypocrisy.
Characters: Flawed Heroes and Monstrous Allies
The ensemble cast is one of the novel’s standout features. Each character brings a unique perspective and set of skills to the group:
- Brother Diaz: A well-meaning cleric thrust into a world of moral ambiguity.
- Alex: A street-smart thief with a hidden lineage and a potential claim to the throne.
- Vigga: A Viking werewolf battling her own inner demons.
- Sunny: An elf whose actions challenge the group’s perceptions of morality.
Abercrombie’s character development shines as he delves into their backstories, motivations, and evolving relationships. The interactions among the group are laced with dark humor, tension, and moments of unexpected camaraderie.
Themes: Redemption, Power, and the Nature of Evil
The Devils delves into complex themes, questioning the nature of redemption and the corrupting influence of power. The Church’s use of “devils” to achieve its ends raises ethical dilemmas about means and ends. Characters grapple with their past actions, seeking redemption in a world that offers little forgiveness. The novel also satirizes religious institutions, highlighting the performative aspects of faith and the dangers of dogma.
Writing Style: Sardonic Prose and Vivid Action
Abercrombie’s prose is characterized by its sharp wit and vivid descriptions. He balances intense action sequences with moments of introspection and humor. The dialogue is snappy and often laced with irony, providing insight into characters’ psyches while advancing the plot. His ability to craft immersive battle scenes stands out, with each confrontation meticulously choreographed to heighten tension and impact.
Critical Reception: Praise and Critiques
The Devils has garnered a mix of acclaim and criticism:
- Positive Aspects:
- Engaging ensemble cast with distinct voices.
- Innovative blending of fantasy tropes with theological satire.
- Dynamic action sequences and compelling world-building.
- Criticisms:
- Some readers found the plot repetitive, with a cycle of travel and conflict.
- The humor, while appreciated by many, was seen as overbearing by others, potentially undermining emotional depth.
- Certain characters, despite their intriguing concepts, lacked sufficient development.
Conclusion: A Promising Start to a New Trilogy
The Devils is a bold and ambitious entry into Abercrombie’s oeuvre. It offers a fresh take on the grimdark genre, infusing it with dark comedy and theological critique. While it may not resonate with all readers, particularly those seeking traditional heroic narratives, it stands as a testament to Abercrombie’s skill in crafting complex worlds and morally ambiguous characters. As the first installment in a planned trilogy, it sets the stage for further exploration of its richly imagined universe.
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