The First Law Books in Order

4.2/5 · 252 ratings across 4 books · Open Library

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A dark fantasy series set in a war-torn world, The First Law follows the intertwined fates of soldiers, politicians, and warriors as they navigate treachery, war, and moral ambiguity. The story spans multiple conflicts, including civil wars, invasions, and political struggles, with a focus on flawed characters driven by ambition, survival, and redemption. Central themes include the cost of power, the illusion of heroism, and the harsh realities of leadership.

This is a sub-series of the larger First Law World series — see that page for every book in the wider setting.

Publication order

In the order the books were originally released.

  1. Cover of The Blade Itself

    The Blade Itself

    2006 · Joe Abercrombie

    A 2006 novel by Joe Abercrombie. Logen Ninefingers, an infamous barbarian, has run out of luck; Captain Jezal dan Luthar dreams of glory while war…

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  2. Cover of Before they are hanged

    Before they are hanged

    2007 · Joe Abercrombie

    Superior Glokta faces a dire situation: defending a city under siege by enemies and infiltrated by traitors, with unreliable allies and a missing…

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  3. Cover of Last Argument of Kings

    Last Argument of Kings

    2008 · Joe Abercrombie

    A 2008 novel by Joe Abercrombie. The King of the Union lies on his deathbed, the peasants revolt, and the nobles scramble to steal his crown. No one…

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Companion & related books

Related titles and editions that sit outside the main numbered order.

  • Cover of Best served cold

    Best served cold

    2009 · Joe Abercrombie

    Monza Murcatto is a soldier who profits from war. Her successes make her popular, which worries her employer. After being betrayed and left for dead,…

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  • Cover of The Heroes

    The Heroes

    2011 · Joe Abercrombie

    They say Black Dow’s killed more men than winter, and clawed his way to the throne of the North up a hill of skulls. The King of the Union is…

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Frequently asked questions

What order should I read the The First Law books in?

Read them in publication order, starting with “The Blade Itself”. Start with “The Blade Itself.”

How many books are in the The First Law series?

We list 5 books by Joe Abercrombie , published between 2006–2011.

Where can I buy the The First Law books?

Each title above links to Amazon. See our affiliate disclosure.

Reading order compiled from author/publisher guidance and verified bibliographic data. Spotted a wrong order, a missing book, or any other mistake? and we'll correct it.