Last Argument of Kings

This is a short review for ‘The First Law' series.

Gritty, gritty books. None of the three tell happy stories. Stay away if you want to read a book that'll make you feel unconditionally good, in the way the Harry Potter(s), or even The Name of the Wind does.

So why read these, then? Because the writing is top-notch. Because, at times, it's funny, or sad, or both, and it never feels awkward or out-of-place. And the grittiness, and oh-so-very obvious flaws of the characters who we follow, is a breath of fresh air. Heck, even the sparsely mentioned magic system is way grittier than most Fantasy novels I've read - the author easily manages to convey the idea of magic in this world being a chaotic / powerful force.

However, the reason that the last book is the one I've added to my favorites list is the ending, which I felt was perfect - the inevitable conclusion to a journey in a world that is decidedly unfair.