Before They Are Hanged

(Book #2 in The First Law Trilogy series)

by Joe Abercrombie

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Book Overview: Before They Are Hanged

The second novel in the wildly popular First Law Trilogy from New York Times bestseller Joe Abercrombie.

Superior Glokta has a problem. How do you defend a city surrounded by enemies and riddled with traitors, when your allies can by no means be trusted, and your predecessor vanished without a trace? It’s enough to make a torturer want to run — if he could even walk without a stick.

Northmen have spilled over the border of Angland and are spreading fire and death across the frozen country. Crown Prince Ladisla is poised to drive them back and win undying glory. There is only one problem — he commands the worst-armed, worst-trained, worst-led army in the world.

And Bayaz, the First of the Magi, is leading a party of bold adventurers on a perilous mission through the ruins of the past. The most hated woman in the South, the most feared man in the North, and the most selfish boy in the Union make a strange alliance, but a deadly one. They might even stand a chance of saving mankind from the Eaters — if they didn’t hate each other quite so much.

Ancient secrets will be uncovered. Bloody battles will be won and lost. Bitter enemies will be forgiven — but not before they are hanged.

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Editorial Reviews

“Bloody and relentless.”– George R. R. Martin on Best Served Cold

“Bold and authentically original.”– Jeff VanderMeer on The Blade Itself

“Abercrombie has written the finest epic fantasy trilogy in recent memory. He’s one writer that no one should miss.”– Junot Diaz

“If you’re fond of bloodless, turgid fantasy with characters as thin as newspaper and as boring as plaster saints, Joe Abercrombie is really going to ruin your day. A long career for this guy would be a gift to our genre.”– Scott Lynch, author of The Lies of Locke Lamora on The Blade Itself

“Compelling characters, a complex plot, and style to burn.”– Strange Horizons on The Blade Itself

“Pointed, driven, and sharp.”– Locus on Red Country

“Magnificent, richly entertaining”– Time on The Heroes

“Imagine The Lord of the Rings as directed by Kurosawa.”– Lev Grossman, Wall Street Journal on The Heroes

“[Abercrombie has] begun breaking his own rules. And succeeding wildly at it. … Rarely has Abercrombie had so much fun while rollicking through his colorful cast’s foibles and witty dialogue – and rarely has he dished out so much straight-for-the-heart poignancy.”– The A.V. Club

“New, fresh, and exciting.”– The Independent (UK)

“Exhilarating… Abercrombie’s knack for wit and grit holds your attention throughout, and his eye for character means that there’s heart as well as muscle.”– SFX (UK)

“Lord of the Rings as directed by Kurosawa.”– Wall Street Journal on The Heroes

About the Author

Joe Abercrombie

Joe Abercrombie is celebrated as one of the most prominent names in contemporary fantasy fiction, hailing from Lancaster, England. Predominantly known for his gritty and darkly humorous approach, Abercrombie skillfully weaves complex narratives that breathe life into compelling characters. With a degree in Psychology from Manchester University and a stint in the digital film industry, he applies his honed understanding of human nature and visual storytelling to his works, resulting in vivid and relatable worlds filled with immersive conflict.

Abercrombie debuted as an author with “The Blade Itself,” the first volume in the lauded First Law Trilogy. The series has since expanded to include standalone novels and short stories, with a total of over two million copies sold worldwide. Notably, his novel “Half a King” won the 2015 Locus Award for Best Young Adult Book, showcasing the expansive range of his writing prowess. Each piece Abercrombie crafts remains critically acclaimed for its innovative blend of fantasy and realism, highlighting his ability to make readers question established notions about heroes, villains, and moral ambiguity.

Despite his painted worlds of ruthless battles and political intrigue, Abercrombie maintains a life far removed from his grim fantasy settings. Residing peacefully in Bath, England, with his wife and three children, Joe continues to create works that push the boundaries of fantasy literature. His influence in the genre remains significant, with fans and peers alike recognizing him as an unparalleled master in storytelling. The high regard for his work in the literary world proves his standing as a commanding figure in the contemporary fantasy scene.