Summary
The Devils is the latest epic fantasy novel from bestselling author Joe Abercrombie, known for his gritty and morally ambiguous tales. Released in 2023, it introduces readers to a notorious band of antiheroes on a bloody and raucous journey. The story follows Brother Diaz, a priest summoned to the Sacred City for what he believes will be a grand holy assignment.
Abercrombie brings his trademark dark humor and complex characterization to this new standalone novel. Set in a world where elves pose a deadly threat, The Devils explores themes of faith, duty and the blurred lines between good and evil. The book has been praised for its immersive worldbuilding and subversion of typical fantasy tropes.
Plot
Brother Diaz, a devout clergyman, is summoned to the Sacred City expecting a prestigious holy assignment. However, upon arrival he discovers his new flock consists of murderers, dark magic practitioners, and monsters. Diaz is tasked with leading this group of “devils” on a perilous mission that will require brutal measures to achieve its righteous ends.
The mission takes Diaz and his unholy band on a hellish journey across dangerous lands. They face threats from elves lurking at the borders who hunger for human flesh. At the same time, greedy and selfish princes care only for their own ambitions and comfort, neglecting the greater good.
As they travel, Diaz must reconcile his religious convictions with the violent methods required of his new role. He grapples with using these “devils” to carry out holy work, questioning whether the ends can truly justify such unholy means. The group faces numerous deadly challenges that test both their combat skills and Diaz's leadership.
Ultimately, Diaz and his band of anti-heroes embark on a blood-soaked adventure filled with dark humor. Their journey pushes the limits of faith and morality as they attempt to complete their righteous mission by any means necessary, no matter how unsavory or sinful those means may be.
Themes
Moral ambiguity in religious missions
Unlikely alliances between disparate groups
Corruption of power and ambition
Violent means to achieve righteous ends
Clash between human civilization and supernatural threats
Redemption through unsavory actions
Subversion of traditional fantasy tropes and archetypes
Setting
The Devils by Joe Abercrombie is set in a gritty medieval-style fantasy world. While the exact era is not specified, the setting evokes a dark and dangerous time reminiscent of Europe's Middle Ages. The story takes place across a vast geographical area, with characters embarking on a perilous journey through hostile lands.
At the center of this world lies the Sacred City, a place of religious significance that serves as both a destination and a source of conflict. The borders of civilization are threatened by elves, depicted not as benevolent creatures but as flesh-hungry monsters. This twist on familiar fantasy tropes helps establish the novel's subversive tone.
Within this harsh landscape, Abercrombie creates a world of stark contrasts. While some areas may be controlled by greedy, self-serving princes focused solely on their own comfort and ambition, others are lawless and overrun by dangerous creatures. The characters must navigate this treacherous terrain, facing both human and supernatural threats as they pursue their unholy mission.
Characters
Brother Diaz: The protagonist, a religious figure summoned to the Sacred City. Diaz expects a commendation but instead receives a mission requiring “bloody measures” from his new flock of unrepentant sinners. He must lead this group on a perilous journey to achieve righteous ends, relying on “the devils” to assist him. Diaz struggles with reconciling his holy work with the unholy deeds required to complete his task.
Miranda Priestly: The antagonist, editor-in-chief of Runway magazine. A demanding, impossibly stylish boss known for terrorizing her employees with unreasonable requests. Miranda wields immense power in the fashion world but shows little regard for those beneath her. Her cruel behavior puts her assistant Andrea through increasingly difficult trials.
Andrea Sachs: A small-town college graduate who lands the coveted position as Miranda's assistant. Andrea endures Miranda's outrageous demands in hopes of earning a career-making recommendation. As the job takes its toll, she must decide if the potential rewards are worth sacrificing her values and wellbeing.
The Master: A recurring antagonist who attempts to control the Sea Devils and use them to conquer Earth. The Master is imprisoned on an island but continues his schemes with the help of his jailer. He is cunning and manipulative, often outwitting those around him.
The Third Doctor: The protagonist, a Time Lord who investigates the disappearance of ships and encounters the Sea Devils. He attempts to broker peace between humans and Sea Devils while thwarting the Master's plans. The Doctor is clever, principled, and committed to non-violent solutions when possible.
Jo Grant: The Doctor's companion who assists him in his adventures. Jo is brave and loyal, often placing herself in danger to help the Doctor and others.
Captain Hart: The commanding officer at a naval base who works with the Doctor to address the Sea Devil threat. He represents the military perspective in the conflict.
Colonel Trenchard: The Master's misguided jailer who assists him in his schemes. Trenchard believes he is acting for the greater good but is ultimately manipulated by the Master.
Quick facts
"The Devils” is a new epic fantasy novel by Joe Abercrombie, set to be released as an audiobook on Audible.
The story follows a band of anti-heroes led by Brother Diaz on a bloody and raucous journey.
The novel features a mix of religious themes and dark fantasy elements.
Brother Diaz leads a group of “unrepentant murderers, practitioners of ghastly magic, and outright monsters” on a holy mission.
The book explores the concept that “holy work sometimes requires unholy deeds."
Elves are portrayed as dangerous creatures that “lurk at our borders and hunger for our flesh."
The story involves political intrigue, with “greedy princes” caring only for “their own ambitions and comfort."
Joe Abercrombie is a New York Times bestselling author known for his gritty and subversive fantasy works.
The novel promises to deliver Abercrombie's signature style of morally ambiguous characters and dark humor.
"The Devils” appears to be a standalone novel, rather than part of Abercrombie's existing series like The First Law trilogy.
About the Author
Joe Abercrombie, a British author and freelance film editor, has made a significant impact in the fantasy genre. Born in Lancaster, England, he began his career working on documentaries and live music events before transitioning to writing full-time. Abercrombie's debut novel, The Blade Itself, launched his acclaimed First Law trilogy in 2006, establishing him as a rising star in the field of gritty, realistic fantasy.
Known for his dark humor and morally ambiguous characters, Abercrombie has earned the nickname “Lord Grimdark” among fans. His writing style is characterized by its visceral action scenes, complex plotting, and subversion of traditional fantasy tropes. In addition to his First Law world, Abercrombie has penned standalone novels such as Best Served Cold and The Heroes, further expanding his literary universe.
Abercrombie's work has garnered critical acclaim and a devoted readership. His books have been translated into numerous languages and have appeared on bestseller lists worldwide. The author's ability to blend elements of fantasy with nuanced character development and political intrigue has earned him comparisons to genre giants like George R.R. Martin.
Beyond his novels, Abercrombie maintains an active online presence, engaging with fans through his blog and social media. He continues to push the boundaries of the fantasy genre with each new release, solidifying his position as one of the most influential voices in contemporary speculative fiction.
