The Devils is Joe Abercrombie's first book since The Age of Madness trilogy ended in 2021, and it's a worthy addition to the author's lineup — and a reminder of why he's so respected within the fantasy genre. Abercrombie is known for writing The First Law trilogy, along with numerous stories set in the same world. The Devils marks an exciting change of pace for the author. It takes readers outside his previously established backdrop and transports them to a darkly fantastical version of medieval Europe.

Unlike our Europe, this one is full of supernatural creatures, constantly worrying about the threat of Elves, and boasts a very different history. It features locations like Venice and Troy, but they don't quite match their real-world counterparts. And the central premise of The Devils revolves around the Serpent Throne of Troy, with The Church bringing together a group of dangerous outcasts to place a desperate young thief upon it. This setup is what sold me on the 2025 fantasy book, and Abercrombie's execution didn't let me down.

The Devils highlights the author's knack for writing grimdark fantasy while also weaving a story with no small amount of heart. The book's commentary on faith, power, and the intersection of the two is a particular highlight. However, everything from the well-crafted setting to the deeply nuanced characters makes this novel a must-read 2025 release.

The Devils Is A Masterclass In World-Building & Character Work

The Book Has Depth But Feels Easy To Immerse Yourself In

The Devils' alternate iteration of Europe could easily feel clunky or confusing, but instead, the book shows off Abercrombie's talents when it comes to world-building. The author doesn't spend much time explaining the setting to us, preferring to throw readers right into the chaotic but recognizable backdrop. This works in the novel's favor, allowing the story to move quickly from the beginning. Of course, well-placed exposition ensures The Devils' setting is thorough and immersive. There's depth to this world, but it never feels too overwhelming.

Each of the "devils" we follow in Abercrombie's story is consistently surprising, showcasing unexpected strengths and significant growth.

The Devils also excels when it comes to character work, continuing a trend from Abercrombie's previous books. The author knows how to write deeply flawed and unlikable characters. He masterfully reveals their personalities and backstories in a gradual way that leaves readers rooting for them, despite their first impressions. Each of the "devils" we follow in Abercrombie's story is consistently surprising, showcasing unexpected strengths and significant growth.

It's commendable how distinct the characters' voices are, especially with The Devils frequently jumping from perspective to perspective. Despite the novel's many POVs, every one of its main characters is fully fleshed out and unflinchingly human. Their relationships and interactions with one another are the true heart of the story, however. The banter throughout The Devils is top tier. Abercrombie's dialogue is certain to elicit a few laughs, even if the humor can feel overdone at times. And the bonds the characters form will keep readers turning the pages.

The Devils Uses A Great Blend Of Horror & Humor To Drive Its Points Home

The Novel Takes An Unflinching And Refreshing Approach To Its Themes

While The Devils never feels too in-your-face with its messaging, it's the sort of book that left me highlighting every other paragraph. Abercrombie's writing is full of humor, but it also offers poignant commentary through the characters' snarky remarks and internal monologues. Like many fantasy books, The Devils tackles themes of oppression, power, and privilege. But it stands out for its willingness to bring religion into the discussion, breaking apart the difference between genuine faith and the institutions that weaponize it.

The novel's horror elements feel fitting alongside the terrible truths it unpacks.

The Devils is a book that perfectly blends fantasy and horror, and its most disturbing moments capture the ruthlessness of the world Abercrombie is operating in. The novel's horror elements feel fitting alongside the terrible truths it unpacks. However, it often highlights those realities using humor. It's an ideal balance, allowing the story to feel like a fun adventure without losing any of the deeper meaning behind it.

There Are A Few Things I Hope Abercrombie Addresses In A Sequel

Some Of The Devils' Storylines Could Have Been Shorter To Make Way For Others

While The Devils is a gripping fantasy book from cover to cover, there are a couple of things that left me wanting more — and I hope Abercrombie addresses some of them in the book's sequel. For one, I'm not entirely sure where The Devils wants readers to land when it comes to the Elves allegedly threatening Europe. We only meet one Elf in the novel, and Sunny is easily one of the most likable characters. With The Church's authority constantly in question, I was waiting for the narrative surrounding the Elves to be upended, or at least properly unpacked. Sadly, it never was.

Joe Abercrombie mentioned he was planning to work on a sequel to The Devils in his April 2024 progress report on JoeAbercrombie.com.

It's possible Abercrombie is saving this discussion for a sequel, or that he wants readers to be skeptical of both sides of this divide. Either way, I'd like to see a greater focus on that narrative, as it isn't challenged or developed nearly enough. While the ending of The Devils is full of twists and turns, the middle portion of the book also gets repetitive at times. Perhaps this is inevitable with the core group of characters being hunted by three different cousins hoping to challenge Alex's throne. But such time could have been dedicated to more interesting storylines.

Fortunately, these are things that can be touched upon in another book, and they don't take away from The Devils' many strengths. Readers should keep this novel on their radar, especially if they're looking for a smart and memorable fantasy adventure, or if they're already fans of Abercrombie's work.

The Devils is out now.