Origin Story
Joe Abercrombie is a British fantasy author and former film editor whose gritty, unflinching storytelling has earned him the title “King of Grimdark.” Best known for his First Law series, Abercrombie’s work is infused with a love for games, from old-school text adventures to strategy classics like Civilization and Age of Empires, all of which helped shape his uniquely immersive style.
Before finding his footing as an author, Abercrombie worked in television, where he started out making tea at a production company before moving into freelance editing. This flexible schedule allowed him the time to revive an idea from his university days—a story that would eventually become his debut novel, The Blade Itself, featuring his “thinking man’s barbarian,” Logen Ninefingers.
The World of the First Law
In 2002, Abercrombie began writing The Blade Itself, and after two years of hard work—and a series of rejections from publishers—Gollancz saw the potential in his story and published it in 2006. The book marked the beginning of The First Law trilogy, followed by Before They Are Hanged and Last Argument of Kings.
With his raw and unvarnished take on fantasy, Abercrombie quickly gained a devoted following and was nominated for the John W. Campbell Award for Best New Writer in 2008. Eager to expand this brutal, darkly humorous world, he followed up with standalone novels set in the same universe. Best Served Cold, The Heroes, and Red Country were widely praised and reached bestseller lists, ultimately coming together as an omnibus titled The Great Leveller.
Other Notable Work
Abercrombie’s versatility as a writer shines in his Shattered Sea trilogy, a Viking-inspired series aimed at younger readers that brings his signature edge to a whole new audience. Today, he lives in Bath, England with his wife Lou and their children, where he continues to write gripping, edgy fantasy that draws readers into worlds rich with dark humor, unforgettable characters, and complex moral landscapes.
More Info
Personal Website
Curious King Titles
Before They Are Hanged
The Blade Itself
