Sharp ends Stories from the world of the first law

Abercrombie returns to his popular "First Law" fantasy world (The Blade Itself; Before They Are Hanged; Last Argument of Kings) for this collection of short stories, set over a period of decades, that revisit past characters and introduce new ones. War between the southern Union and the barbarians of the North forms the backdrop as rogues, mercenaries, and ordinary people are forced to cope with the disaster and devastation that are the hallmark of the author's fantasy. The stories of Shev and Javre, a partnership that occupies perhaps half the book, are the standouts here, sort of a low-rent Fafhrd and the Grey Mouser running from-and into-a series of exciting but ill-informed life choices involving persistent gangsters and murderous priestesses. Steven Pacey's narration is as dry, witty, and grim as the material deserves, and his character voices are consistently distinctive and clear. Audio listeners will enjoy the interview with the narrator and author that concludes this edition. Recommended for a more adult audience than the author's recent "Shattered Sea" trilogy. VERDICT Fans of George R.R. Martin and Scott Lynch would find this a great entry point to the "First Law" world without committing to a new trilogy, and Abercrombie fans looking for more blood, blades, and mud will not be disappointed.-Jason Puckett, Georgia State Univ. Lib., Atlanta © Copyright 2016. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.