Review of 'Half a King' by Joe Abercrombie

This book came so highly recommended by well known fantasy authors, including Robin Hobb and George Martin, that I almost had to read it when the Kindle add showed up in my inbox.  I am happy to report that this particular book lived up to the hype.  I should mention that this novel is YA, unlike Abercrombie’s previous works.  Half a King, however, should appeal to older readers as well.

In Half a King, Joe Abercrombie takes the traditional fantasy plot line of the outcast, rightful king and makes it all his own.  Prince Yarvi is not a traditional hero, but his dogged determination and commitment to the greater good won me over despite his flaws.  I enjoyed following along as he learns to play to his strengths and accept himself, despite his birth defect meaning he will never fit the description of his culture’s ideal.  The novel is well written, containing interesting cultures, multi-dimensional characters that drive the plot, and packed with adventure.

Prince Yarvi has known from a very young age that he can never live up to his father’s or, for that matter, entire people’s expectations.  Born with a disfigured hand, he cannot serve as a warrior and is thereby nearly useless in his vikingesque society.  Instead, he throws himself fully  into his training as a minister.  When his father and older brother are murdered, however, Yarvi is thrust back into the old life as the rightful king.  Of course, more than a few refuse to accept ‘half a man’ as king.  Betrayed, Yarvi soon finds himself sold into slavery, nearly crushed under the weight of his oath to avenge his father and brother.  A daring escape attempt unites Yarvi with an unlikely set of fellow slaves.  Captivated by his compelling story, the group embarks on a seemingly impossible mission of redemption and revenge.

Without giving too much away, I will only say that the twists at the end caught me by surprise (and are quite possibly why George Martin felt it worthy of recommendation).
'Half a King' on Amazon