Joe Abercrombie brings his Age of Madness trilogy to a brutal and gripping conclusion with The Wisdom of Crowds, a novel that is as darkly satirical as it is blood-soaked. True to form, Abercrombie delivers a tale of shifting alliances, sudden betrayals, and the ever-revolving wheel of power, all while maintaining his signature wit and razor-sharp prose.

The novel plunges the Union into chaos as revolution sweeps the land. The oppressed rise, the mighty fall, and anarchy reign in a world that increasingly mirrors our own in its exploration of populism, power vacuums, and the fickle nature of mob justice. Abercrombie’s trademark morally gray characters are at the heart of the storm again—some fighting to survive, others scheming to seize the moment, all walking the precarious line between ambition and self-destruction.

One of Abercrombie’s greatest strengths has always been his character work, and The Wisdom of Crowds is no exception. Leo dan Brock, Savine dan Glokta, Rikke, and Judge remain as compelling as ever, their arcs twisting in unexpected and sometimes harrowing ways. The novel doesn’t hold back on consequences, ensuring that no character—no matter how beloved—is safe from the grim tide of revolution.

If there’s one drawback, the breakneck pacing and sheer number of characters sometimes leave certain storylines feeling underdeveloped. The climax, while thrilling, may not fully satisfy those hoping for a more definitive resolution. However, Abercrombie’s ability to balance grim violence with bleak humor ensures that the journey is never dull.

Overall, The Wisdom of Crowds is a powerful and thought-provoking finale that solidifies Abercrombie as one of the modern masters of grimdark fantasy. It may not be a perfect ending, but it’s unforgettable. Fans of the First Law universe will find plenty to love—just don’t expect a happy ending.