Title: Half a King
Author: Joe Abercrombie
First published July 3, 2014
336 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780804178327 (ISBN10: 0804178321)
Rating: 3.97
Overview
Half a King by Joe Abercrombie is a thrilling tale of betrayal, vengeance, and survival. Prince Yarvi was left for dead by his own family and now he seeks to reclaim the throne that was never meant to be his.
But to do so, Yarvi must overcome the cruelty of his enemies, break free from the chains of his past, and navigate the treacherous waters of the Shattered Sea with only one good hand. Though he was born weak, Yarvi’s mind is as sharp as a blade and his determination is unbreakable.
With a motley crew of outcasts by his side, Yarvi sets out to take what is rightfully his, but the journey is fraught with twists and turns that threaten to end in tragedy. Will Yarvi emerge victorious, or will he be consumed by the darkness that surrounds him?
Find out in Half a King.
About the Author
Joe Abercrombie’s educational background includes attending Lancaster Royal Grammar School and studying psychology at Manchester University. He initially worked in television production, but later became a freelance film editor.
During a break between jobs, he began writing his book, The Blade Itself, in 2002 and completed it in 2004. The book was published by Gollancz in 2006 and was followed by two other books in The First Law trilogy: Before They Are Hanged and Last Argument of Kings.
Abercrombie currently resides in London with his wife and daughter. In early 2008, he was a contributor to the BBC Worlds of Fantasy series, alongside other notable authors such as Michael Moorcock, Terry Pratchett, and China Mieville.
Editoral Review
Half a King, by Joe Abercrombie, is a masterful work of fantasy that transports readers to a world of political intrigue, betrayal, and epic battles. The book was first published on July 3, 2014, and has since become a cult classic among fans of the genre.
Abercrombie is a prolific British author and has an impressive portfolio of works. He has won numerous awards for his writing, including the Locus Award for Best First Novel, and has been lauded for his ability to create complex characters and intricate plotlines.
Half a King tells the tale of Yarvi, a young prince who is left for dead by his family and forced to navigate a treacherous world alone. In his quest for revenge, Yarvi discovers that he is much more than what he initially thought, and his journey takes him to places he never imagined.
The novel is a classic example of epic fantasy, with its sprawling landscapes, colourful cast of characters, and high-stakes conflicts. However, Abercrombie also infuses the story with themes of personal growth, sacrifice, and redemption, making it a work that transcends its genre.
One of the book’s most impressive features is its vivid setting. Abercrombie expertly creates a world that feels both familiar and fantastical, with its own set of cultures, traditions, and conflicts.
Readers will be transported to the harsh, unforgiving terrain of the Shattered Sea and will feel as though they are right there alongside the characters. Speaking of the characters, Abercrombie excels at crafting multifaceted, flawed individuals who readers will either love or love to hate.
Yarvi is a compelling protagonist, and readers will root for him as he overcomes obstacles and discovers his inner strength. The supporting cast is just as engaging, with each character bringing their nuances and motivations to the story.
Another standout feature of Half a King is its pacing. Abercrombie deftly manages the book’s many plotlines, ensuring that the story never feels slow or lagging.
The action sequences are thrilling, and the dialogue crackles with wit and tension. If there is one weakness to the book, it is that some readers may find the story too predictable.
The book follows many of the standard tropes of the fantasy genre, and while this is not necessarily a bad thing, some readers may find it lacking in originality. Overall, Half a King is a must-read for fans of fantasy and anyone who enjoys richly imagined worlds populated by complex, engaging characters.
Abercrombie’s writing is stunning, and his ability to craft a gripping story is unmatched. This book is highly recommended.
Rating: 4.5/5 stars.
