The Devils By Joe Abercrombie Book Review
A gang of murderers, monsters, and misfits teaming up to save a crumbling, plague-ridden medieval Europe? That’s the wild ride Joe Abercrombie serves up in his latest book, The Devils.
So, what’s it about? It’s dark fantasy set in an alternate late Antiquity Europe, where magic, political chaos, and eldritch horrors lurk beneath the surface. At the center, you’ve got Brother Diaz, a well-meaning but somewhat shaky priest leading a ragtag group called The Devils—a vampire, a necromancer, a werewolf, an invisible elf, and a bunch of other grim, grizzled characters—on a mission to crown a thief-turned-heir named Alex and unite a fractured church against an oncoming elvish invasion. The tone is grim and gritty, as you’d expect from Abercrombie, but it’s got a fresh twist of sharp humor and unexpected heart.
What really makes The Devils stand out is Abercrombie’s trademark character work, dialed up with lively, almost darkly comedic banter that gives the story surprising levity. These aren’t your typical heroes; they’re deeply flawed, often morally grey, and full of biting wit. Readers have loved the found-family dynamic between this band of outcasts, calling it chaotic but strangely heartwarming. Plus, the action scenes are cinematic, brutal, and vividly described—especially the last hundred pages, which many say are some of Abercrombie’s best combat writing yet.
Fans have compared its vibe to mixing classic grimdark with a bit of the Suicide Squad’s chaotic humor. Characters like Vigga, the fierce Norse werewolf, and Sunny, the compassionate invisible elf, steal the spotlight with their memorable voices and emotional depth. The worldbuilding, while not the most complex Abercrombie’s ever done, really captures the decay and tension of this alternate Europe, full of political intrigue, eldritch threats, and creeping doom.
That said, not everyone loved it. Some found the pacing uneven or the plot a bit aimless, especially during Brother Diaz’s chapters, which some say never quite anchor the story. Others thought the humor could feel a little lowbrow or overdone at times. If you need a tight, fast-moving plot or a main character who really drives the story, this one might test your patience. But if you’re into complex characters, sharp dialogue, and dark comedy mixed with grimness, you’ll probably love it.
From my perspective, The Devils feels like a refreshing palate cleanser from Abercrombie’s earlier, more relentlessly grim works. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy morally messy antiheroes, sharp satire, and the wild camaraderie of a found family made up of society’s rejects. If you like your fantasy bloody, sometimes a little silly, but still packed with emotional punch and questions about faith, redemption, and power, this is a great pick. On the flip side, if you want your fantasy tightly plotted with clear heroes and a hopeful tone, this might not be your cup of tea.
All in all, The Devils is a fast-paced, bloody, and often hilariously dark romp through a world on the brink of collapse, anchored by unforgettable characters who might stick with you long after you finish the last page. If you’re a fan of Abercrombie’s signature grit mixed with some levity and a whole lot of heart, this will feel like a triumphant return.
If that sounds like your kind of story, definitely check it out. And hey, let me know what you thought if you’ve read it too!