Before They Are Hanged, the second book in Joe Abercrombie’s The First Law trilogy, takes readers deeper into a dark and brutal world where few things are black and white. Following the events of The Blade Itself, this installment builds on the series’ grim tone, engaging plot, and morally ambiguous characters, delivering a gripping narrative full of unexpected twists and more profound character development.

Abercrombie’s world is grimdark in every sense—war is chaotic, alliances are fragile, and the line between hero and villain is blurred. The story weaves between three main plotlines: Colonel West and his army’s defense of the Union’s borders from the savage Northmen, the crippled Inquisitor Glokta’s political maneuvers in the crumbling city of Dagoska, and the motley group of adventurers led by the barbarian Logen Ninefingers on a journey to the far reaches of the world. Abercrombie excels at intertwining these threads, keeping the reader on edge as the stakes grow higher with each chapter.

Abercrombie’s strength lies in crafting deeply flawed yet compelling characters. Glokta, the crippled torturer, continues to be a standout. His bitter internal monologues and clever manipulations make him sympathetic and repellent, a character who wrestles with his personal demons even as he sinks deeper into the moral decay of his world. Logen Ninefingers, the infamous warrior struggling with his past, showcases Abercrombie’s knack for giving larger-than-life fighters real emotional depth. The interplay between Logen and the scholar Bayaz adds humor and tension to their epic journey, providing some of the novel’s most memorable moments.

Despite these strengths, some characters, such as Jezal dan Luthar, the vain noble-turned-hero, can feel somewhat predictable, though Abercrombie does challenge their arcs by the end. Still, the sense that no one is safe or wholly righteous keeps the cast interesting.

Before They Are Hanged explores themes of power, corruption, and survival in a grim, uncaring world. Abercrombie avoids traditional fantasy tropes of good versus evil, instead focusing on personal motivations and the lengths people will go for survival. The lack of a clear-cut hero might put off readers seeking more traditional fantasy fare, but the novel offers much to think about for those who enjoy moral ambiguity.

Abercrombie’s prose is sharp, often punctuated with dry humor and cutting observations. His action scenes are brutal and chaotic, perfectly reflecting the disorder of war and conflict. However, the book’s pacing may feel uneven at times. While the action-heavy sequences are gripping, other sections—particularly the journey undertaken by Logen’s group—can drag. Abercrombie’s commitment to realism sometimes results in slower, more drawn-out moments that could test some readers’ patience.

Before They Are Hanged is a solid follow-up to The Blade Itself, expanding the world and deepening the complexities of its characters. Joe Abercrombie’s talent for gritty, character-driven storytelling shines through, though the slow pacing in certain sections and the bleak tone may not be to everyone’s taste. Still, fans of grimdark fantasy will likely find much to admire in this unforgiving and expertly crafted world.