The Devils

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. Do you feel that the title The Devils accurately reflects the tone and themes of the story? Why or why not?

2. How do the tone and voice of the opening chapters of The Devils set the scene for the narrative? Did you find the voice engaging? Why or why not?

3. What moment would you consider the emotional or narrative climax of the novel? Why? Are they different?

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

1. A major question for the devils is whether monsters can ever be redeemed. Do you believe people can truly change, even after terrible choices? Have you ever witnessed or experienced that kind of change?

2. Vigga struggles with shame and self-loathing. Have you ever wrestled with a part of yourself you found difficult to accept? How do you relate to her crisis?

3. Alex is often thrust into decisions she isn’t ready for. Have you ever found yourself leading before you felt prepared? How did you cope with the responsibility?

4. Which character’s struggle do you find most personally moving, and why? How do their challenges mirror any you’ve faced?

Examine the book’s relevance to societal issues, historical events, or cultural themes.

1. How does Abercrombie use satire and exaggeration to comment on political or religious hypocrisy? Where do you see echoes of real historical or present-day figures and ideologies?

2. The story features numerous female characters in positions of power. How does the book handle gender dynamics, and how does that compare to historical or current societal norms?

3. How does the book portray war and violence, not just in physical battles, but in ideology and belief? How does this parallel the real world?

Dive into the book’s structure, characters, themes, and symbolism.

1. In what ways does The Devils subvert traditional fantasy tropes, especially concerning heroism, villainy, and prophecy?

2. How does Abercrombie use shifting points of view to build tension and reveal character motivations? Choose a few scenes to compare narrative styles.

3. Consider the role of names, titles, and honorifics throughout the novel. How does naming affect power, perception, and identity?

4. How does Abercrombie use humor, especially dark or ironic humor, in the novel? Do you think it enhances the emotional and thematic points of the story, or detracts, and why?

Encourage imaginative and creative connections to the book.

1. Imagine a “lost chapter” of The Devils set between two existing chapters. What event would you explore further, and which characters would you focus on?

2. Rewrite a few chapters from the point of view of one of the villains, such as Duke Michael or Cardinal Zizka. How would the change in perspective affect the overall story?

3. If you were to adapt The Devils into a television series, which scenes would you highlight or change? Why?