Joe Abercrombie's "The Blade Itself" stands out as one of the most impressive fantasy debuts I’ve encountered in recent years. The moment I finished it, I was captivated and eagerly sought out "Before They Are Hanged," anticipating the unfolding journeys of the richly crafted characters from the first novel. To my sheer delight, this second installment not only matches the brilliance of the first but often soars to dazzling new heights.

At the heart of the first book were its unforgettable characters, and that remains true for "Before They Are Hanged." Abercrombie possesses an extraordinary ability to deepen our understanding of characters who have already undergone remarkable transformations. Figures like Logen Ninefingers, the fierce yet introspective barbarian; Glokta, the sharp-witted and crippled torturer; and Bayez, who masterfully subverts the cliché of the "wise old wizard," are poised to become legends within the fantasy genre. Even the supporting cast is vividly drawn, their growth woven seamlessly into the tapestry of the narrative. We delve deeper into the psyches of Jezal, Ferro, West, and Dogman, each bringing their unique flair to the story. Abercrombie's signature dark humor reemerges, enriching the characters and adding layers of complexity. He skillfully intertwines threads of tragedy and comedy that resonate throughout his creations.

In my initial reading of the first novel, I found its pacing somewhat languid. However, it has become evident that Abercrombie was meticulously setting the stage in the first book, which permits a much swifter and more exhilarating plot progression in this sequel, as readers are now intimately familiar with the world and its inhabitants. The narrative unfolds in three intertwining arcs. The first centers on Glokta, who finds himself in a perilous position as he must defend the beleaguered city of Dogoska from the encroaching Gurkish Empire while unmasking traitors lurking within its walls—an assignment he is uniquely equipped to tackle. The second arc invites us to join First Magi Bayez, his shrewd apprentice Quai, Logen, Ferro, Navigator Longfoot, and the ambitious Jezal on a perilous quest to the very edge of the world. Their banter crackles with humor while Bayez enriches our understanding of the world’s fascinating history, showcasing masterful world-building. The third arc plunges us into the chaos of war between the Union and Bethod's Northmen, where we ride alongside Dogman and his loyal band of warriors. These segments deliver high-octane action interspersed with laughter and moments that tug at the heartstrings, making them some of my favorites in the book.

Having traversed many realms of fantasy literature—often marked by repetition—I find Abercrombie’s ability to consistently surprise me to be a invigorating breath of fresh air. It rekindles the sense of wonder I experienced when I first dove into the genre, nourishing my craving for the new and extraordinary. I am truly grateful to be able to rediscover a spark of that magic. Readers who reveled in "The Blade Itself" will undoubtedly find joy in "Before They Are Hanged." If you’re a fantasy enthusiast seeking an original and exhilarating journey, I wholeheartedly recommend this series—it is a treasure that certainly does not disappoint! Highly recommended!