I was absolutely charmed by this book. It’s like the Dirty Dozen goes on a fantasy quest, and nott only is it filled with great beats, solid action, and fantastic characters, it also has an incredibly sharp with.

The narrative follows Brother Diaz, in a medieval world not quite unlike ours, he’s been given a new assignment, the Church of the Holy Expediency. Under orders from the (very) young pope, Diaz is to escort a newly discovered heir to tthe city of Troy to take her place on the Serpent Throne.

It won’t be an easy journey, but Diaz has a motley crew helping him and Alex get to Troy. There’s a lusty female werewolf, a smarmy magician, a charming vampire, a powerful warrior, a former pirate/adventurer and an elf.

What follows is a raucous adventure with lots going on, and some really well-written and enjoyable characters. I expected it to be fun and adventurous. I had no idea when I was getting into it that it would b so funny.

I laughed aloud just as often as I found myself getting caught up in the action beats and character moments.

It’s a good sized read, but that just allows you to settle in and really get to know the characters. The adventure, the arcs, are all incredibly enjoyable, And I’ll say this right now, if Abercrombie’s other books are this witty, I may have to check out his other novels.

He’s introduced us to a familiar world, filled it with what come across as familiar character tropes and then plays with them in fun and interesting ways. Abercrombie sets up his characters and the troubles and travails they’ll face, and the reader just buckles up and holds on.

The Devils is ingeniously crafted, and I was surprised how much I enjoyed it. I knew that I would like it, but I ended up coming out of it loving it. It’s my favourite novel of the year so far. This is one that I am recommending to everyone, even if fantasy isn’t your thing. This book works like gangbusters, and is once again, one that I could see in my mind’s eye as I read.

It played out like a limited series in my head, and if someone hasn’t snapped up the rights for it yet, I highly advise that they make it quick. And don’t stray very far from the source material when you adapt it. It’s so much fun!

Check this one out, and you won’t regret it! And it’s part of a planned trilogy! I cannot wait to ride with the characters again!