Before They Are Hanged

Joe Abercrombie

Before They Are Hanged

Joe Abercrombie
66 pages2-hour read
Fiction
Novel
Adult
Published in 2007

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Book Brief

Joe Abercrombie

Before They Are Hanged

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2007
Book Details
Pages

544

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Fantasy

Action & Adventure
Setting

The Circle Of The World • Medieval Fantasy World

Theme
Politics & Government

War

Order & Chaos
Publication Year

2007

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Before They Are Hanged by Joe Abercrombie follows a diverse group of characters in their struggles across a war-torn land. Key figures navigate political machinations, confront personal challenges, and embark on dangerous quests, all while the threat of conflict looms large. The story is the second installment in Abercrombie's The First Law series.

Gritty

Suspenseful

Dark

Mysterious

Reviews & Readership

4.4

252,090 ratings

90%

Loved it

9%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

In Before They Are Hanged, Joe Abercrombie adeptly balances dark humor, complex characters, and intense action. Many reviewers praised its gritty realism and engaging plot twists. However, some criticized its pacing and dense world-building. Overall, it stands as a strong, character-driven addition to the fantasy genre.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Before They Are Hanged ?

Fans of gritty, character-driven fantasy with morally complex heroes will relish Joe Abercrombie's Before They Are Hanged. Comparable to George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series, this book is perfect for readers who appreciate dark humor, intricate plots, and intense, unpredictable conflicts.

4.4

252,090 ratings

90%

Loved it

9%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Character List

A former war hero turned torturer, Glokta is tasked with defending Dagoska and uncovering conspiracies, navigating his role with a blend of cynicism and pragmatism.

Known as the Bloody-Nine, Logen is a barbarian warrior grappling with his violent reputation while imparting practical wisdom to his companions.

An arrogant nobleman and officer, Jezal's journey challenges his naive perspectives as he encounters the harsh realities beyond his privileged life.

A competent officer from a humble background, West navigates the meritocratic challenges of the Union army while maintaining his principles.

Ferro is a fiercely independent and vengeful woman, driven by her past enslavement and equipped with unique abilities crucial to the quest.

The First of the Magi, Bayaz is a powerful and enigmatic figure leading a quest for a magical artifact, with motives that remain largely obscure.

An experienced and pragmatic leader of the Union army, Burr faces internal challenges from subordinates and struggles with political interference.

An inept and glory-seeking noble whose actions contribute to military blunders and highlight the flaws within aristocratic leadership.

A veteran scout with keen senses and a loyal disposition, he becomes an unexpected leader among his crew of Northmen allies.

A seasoned and steadfast warrior chief known for his decisive nature, guiding his crew with experience and pragmatism.

A ruthless and cynical warrior, Dow embodies the brutal aspects of Northman culture, driven by violence and strength.

Rival commanders under Lord Marshal Burr, their personal conflicts and ego-driven decisions complicate Union military efforts.

The pragmatic Magister of the Guild of Spicers in Dagoska, Eider navigates political tensions with intelligence and a focus on survival.

Book Details
Pages

544

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Fantasy

Action & Adventure
Setting

The Circle Of The World • Medieval Fantasy World

Theme
Politics & Government

War

Order & Chaos
Publication Year

2007

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Buy This Book

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 10,800+ additional titles.