The Devils Summary: A Dark and Thrilling Fantasy Journey

The Devils by Joe Abercrombie: A Complete Summary & Analysis

Introduction to The Devils Summary: A Gripping Tale of Power, Morality, and Redemption

What if the line between good and evil isn’t as clear as we think?

Joe Abercrombie’s The Devils is a dark fantasy masterpiece that subverts traditional hero narratives, presenting a world where morality is fluid and survival depends on making the “least worst choices.”

Key Facts

• Genre: Grimdark Fantasy

• Themes: Moral ambiguity, power struggles, identity

• Comparable Works: The Blade Itself (Abercrombie), A Song of Ice and Fire (GRRM)

• Tone: Brutal, cynical, with dark humor

Why It Stands Out

✔ No clear heroes or villains—every character is flawed
✔ Visceral action scenes with unflinching violence
✔ Complex political intrigue reminiscent of GRRM
✔ Dark humor that leavens the grim tone

If you’re ready to dive into a tale of war, deceit, and self-discovery, keep reading for a detailed breakdown of the plot, themes, characters, and much more in this The Devils Summary.

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About the Author: Joe Abercrombie

Dubbed the “brightest star among new British fantasy writers,” Abercrombie is known for:

• Gritty, adult-oriented fantasy with heavy violence

• Moral complexity—no black-and-white characters

• Cinematic action scenes

• Influences: George R.R. Martin, Iain Banks

Notable Works:

• The First Law trilogy

• Best Served Cold

• The Age of Madness trilogy

The Devils Summary & Full Plot Summary

Part I: The Gathering of Devils

• Alex, a street thief, is “revealed” as the lost princess of Troy by Duke Michael.

• Brother Diaz, a rule-obsessed monk, is forced to lead the Chapel of the Holy Expediency—a team of monsters:

  • Jakob of Thorn (cursed immortal warrior)

  • Balthazar (arrogant necromancer)

  • Baron Rikard (ancient vampire)

  • Vigga (violent werewolf)

  • Sunny (mysterious elf)

• The group begins their journey to Troy, facing attacks from Alex’s ruthless cousins.

Part II: The Road to Troy

• Duke Marcian attacks with beast-men; Vigga and Jakob unleash brutal violence.

• Balthazar tries (and fails) to break his magical binding.

• Baron Rikard feeds on enemies, growing younger.

• Duke Constans ambushes them at sea; Jakob sacrifices himself in a duel.

Part III: The Battle for the Throne

• The group reaches Troy, where Duke Michael’s betrayal is revealed—Alex was just a pawn.

• Empress Eudoxia (Alex’s grandmother) is discovered possessing another body.

• A climactic battle erupts in the palace:

  • Balthazar raises an army of undead.

  • Vigga is eaten by a monster but reborn.

  • Jakob kills Duke Michael in a fatal fall.

Part IV: The Coronation & Aftermath

• Alex is crowned Empress, but the victory is hollow.

• The “devils” disband:

  • Balthazar is re-imprisoned.

  • Jakob refuses to lead another war.

  • Brother Diaz accepts that even monsters can do good.

The Devils Summary & Full Chapters Summary

Part I: The Beginning of a Reluctant Journey

Saint Aelfric’s Day
Brother Diaz, a monk, struggles with traffic in the Holy City as he prepares for an important audience with the Pope. He is frustrated by the crowded streets, filled with pilgrims and prostitutes, and yearns for advancement within the Church.

How It Goes
This chapter provides no significant content beyond its title.

The Thirteenth Virtue
Diaz arrives at the Celestial Palace, expecting to meet the Pope but instead is redirected to Cardinal Zizka. He is told that he’s been selected to lead the Chapel of the Holy Expediency, a role requiring him to deal with supernatural beings like “monsters” and “devils.”

This Much Luck
Princess Alexia Pyrogennetos (Alex), a street-smart thief, discovers that she is the long-lost heir to the Serpent Throne of Troy. Her uncle, Duke Michael, reveals her royal identity, though Alex is skeptical and sees it as an opportunity.

A Flock of Black Sheep
Brother Diaz is introduced to his new companions, who include the immortal Jakob of Thorn, the necromancer Balthazar, the elf Sunny, and the werewolf Vigga. Diaz realizes that they all serve as part of his new “flock.”

Born in the Flame
Alex undergoes a ceremony where she is confirmed as the legitimate heir to Troy, “born in the flame.” Cardinal Zizka and Duke Michael inform her of the looming threat from Empress Eudoxia’s sorcerous sons and the elves, emphasizing the need for unity in Europe under the Church.

The Start of a Bad Joke
The group, now bound by the Pope, is tasked with escorting Alex to Troy. Their journey begins in chaos as an attack on the inn they’re staying in interrupts their plans.

Hold on to Something
No specific content is provided for this chapter beyond its title.

No Room at the Inn
The aftermath of the attack during “The Start of a Bad Joke” continues. The group recovers from the ambush and decides to press on despite the dangerous encounter.

Wrath
A chaotic battle breaks out at the inn when Duke Marcian and his monstrous forces attack. The group fights back fiercely, and Vigga is unleashed as a werewolf, showcasing her deadly abilities.

The Good Meat
During the fight, Vigga’s brutal preference for “good meat” (human targets) becomes evident. The group decides to push forward to Troy despite the attack and losses, realizing that the Papal binding compels them.

Empress or Death
The group, a mix of “monsters” and Church members, prepares for a dangerous and clandestine journey to Troy via Venice, fully aware of the constant threats they face. Alex continues to struggle with her new royal identity.

Part II: The Journey Continues

Least Worst Choices
The group, disguised as pilgrims, joins a large company on their journey to Venice. They encounter a mix of unsavory characters, including beggars, thieves, and prostitutes, highlighting the hypocrisy of the pilgrims.

Blessed is a Stretch
As the pilgrimage continues, Diaz is conflicted by the sinful nature of his companions, while Bishop Apollonia subtly evaluates the group’s true intentions.

See to the Holy Land
No specific content is provided for this chapter beyond its title.

What Can Be Spared
Balthazar, still bound by his Papal restrictions, continues his magical studies and engages in philosophical debates with Baron Rikard, revealing the latter’s pragmatic view of life and faith.

Like a Treat
Alex confides in Sunny, expressing doubts about being a princess and the weight of her new identity. Sunny offers a fresh perspective on life and truth, helping Alex process her feelings.

Clean Not Clean
Vigga, struggling with her inner werewolf nature and thirst for blood, faces physical signs of her curse. She reflects on her past and her identity as a werewolf.

More About Those Dumplings
The group reaches Venice, where Brother Diaz begins teaching Alex to read and write. They meet Frigo, a baker and crime lord, who tasks them with retrieving a mysterious “white box” from an illusionist’s house in exchange for passage to Troy. Bishop Apollonia is revealed to be working with Alex’s cousin, Duke Constans, and attempts to betray her.

No Smiles at the Monastery
The group receives their mission from Frigo, who is now occupying a stolen monastery. They are tasked with retrieving a “white box” from an illusionist’s house.

Every House an Island
Balthazar lectures Alex on the history of Venice and its magical origins, specifically the ancient Carthaginian Witch Engineers who shaped the city. The group arrives at the illusionist’s house, which is imbued with Carthaginian magic.

The Magic of Deportment
Balthazar prepares an elaborate ritual to access the illusionist’s house while Baron Rikard gives Alex lessons in royal deportment. They also discover the severed heads of the Visentin twins, which are crucial for navigating the house.

Talking Heads
The group struggles to navigate the illusionist’s house, which is magically designed to confuse them. They rely on Balthazar’s severed heads for guidance, leading to humorous and frustrating moments.

In Circles
Balthazar begins a powerful ritual to overcome the illusions in the house, though his true intention is to break his Papal binding.

Nothing but the Truth
As Balthazar’s ritual intensifies, chaos erupts. Alex intervenes, asserting her authority and stopping Balthazar before the ritual can cause further damage.

Too Much Trouble
No specific content is provided for this chapter beyond its title.

Greed
No specific content is provided for this chapter beyond its title.

Fire on the Water
While traveling by sea, the group is attacked by Duke Constans, one of Alex’s cousins, and his grotesque fish-human soldiers. A brutal naval battle ensues, with the group fighting for survival.

You Did It Now
The battle escalates as Vigga fully transforms into a werewolf, causing havoc among Constans’ forces. Balthazar and Baptiste use their unique skills to help fight back. The ship sinks, and the group is scattered.

A Draw Is Enough
No specific content is provided for this chapter beyond its title.

Part III: Challenges and Betrayals

Strange Bedfellows
Brother Diaz and Vigga wash ashore after the shipwreck and form an uneasy alliance. Diaz shows unexpected compassion and leadership, while Vigga struggles with her animalistic urges.

Not the First Time
No specific content is provided for this chapter beyond its title.

Prone to Turmoil
Balthazar and Baptiste also survive, reluctantly forming their own alliance. They scavenge for supplies and Balthazar continues to lament his binding.

Bit by a Monk
This chapter references Diaz’s sexual encounters with Vigga, which are fully revealed in the chapter titled “Pride.”

The Current Set of Enemies
No specific content is provided for this chapter beyond its title.

Our Heavenly Calling
No specific content is provided for this chapter beyond its title.

The Wrong Way
Alex and Sunny, separated from the group, navigate a dangerous, war-torn landscape. Sunny cleverly sabotages a pursuit party’s horses and poisons their stew to thwart them.

Reverses
No specific content is provided for this chapter beyond its title.

Famously Dove-ish
No specific content is provided for this chapter beyond its title.

Loophole
No specific content is provided for this chapter beyond its title.

What You Can’t Change
No specific content is provided for this chapter beyond its title.

A Splendid Occasion
The group reconvenes for a diplomatic meeting. Baron Rikard uses his glamour to manipulate the local populace, while Balthazar attempts a ritual to locate Alex using the power of standing stones.

My Greed Is a Famine
No specific content is provided for this chapter beyond its title.

End Times
The group reflects on the constant threat of war and plague. Vigga’s pragmatic, brutal philosophy is highlighted.

Good Givers
The group encounters a traveling performance and discusses their next moves. Vigga proposes they actively hunt their pursuers, while Alex struggles with the realities of her situation.

Cart in a Bog
No specific content is provided for this chapter beyond its title.

Vows
The group seeks refuge in a ruined monastery, where Sunny reveals her painful past. They face the arrival of Duke Sabbas’s forces.

Pride
The group faces Duke Sabbas and his sorcerers in a battle at the monastery. Balthazar uses necromancy and the dead to fight Sabbas’s forces. During this chaotic battle, it’s revealed that Brother Diaz and Vigga have had multiple sexual encounters.

Our Latest Last Stand
No specific content is provided for this chapter beyond its title.

The Angel of Troy
Duke Sabbas reveals his wings, demonstrating his powerful sorcery. The battle continues, with Alex, Sunny, Jakob, and Balthazar fighting desperately.

A Miraculous Medicine
No specific content is provided for this chapter beyond its title.

Part IV: The Final Confrontation

End of the Road
The group arrives in Troy, with Alex preparing for her coronation. Baron Rikard offers advice on ruling.

To Duel with Giants
Alex is introduced to Lady Severa and learns more about Empress Eudoxia’s past. Alex takes a ritual bath and reflects on her identity as Empress and her perceived flaws.

Rivers in the Sky
No specific content is provided for this chapter beyond its title.

Before You Ask
No specific content is provided for this chapter beyond its title.

Tomorrow’s Ghosts
Jakob, Brother Diaz, and Duke Michael discuss the challenges Alex will face, including the powerful Arcadius (her eldest cousin) and the threat of the elves.

Close to Heaven
Brother Diaz explores the Athenaeum, discovering remnants of Empress Eudoxia’s soul manipulation experiments.

Clean Inside
Vigga struggles to control her wolf nature while the group prepares for Alex’s coronation. Alex feels the pressure of her role as Empress.

The Beautiful Compromise
No specific content is provided for this chapter beyond its title.

Not Nothing
No specific content is provided for this chapter beyond its title.

The Sword and the Book
Alex is crowned Empress, facing political challenges and discovering her true worth in the role.

So Much to Live Up To
No specific content is provided for this chapter beyond its title.

Evil Friends
Alex confronts Arcadius about their political marriage. The group prepares for their return journey.

The Language of Violence
Alex is betrayed by her handmaidens, who are revealed to be sorceresses. A climactic confrontation occurs with Lady Severa, who is revealed to be Empress Eudoxia.

The Right Side and the Wrong
No specific content is provided for this chapter beyond its title.

Release the Leftovers
The group faces Lady Severa, Balthazar battles Eudoxia, and Vigga is reborn in wolf form after a sacrifice.

A War in Miniature
Balthazar delves into the Athenaeum, fighting Eudoxia and understanding her soul-manipulation apparatus. Jakob battles Duke Michael.

Unacceptable Behaviour
Eudoxia reveals her plans to Balthazar. Alex defeats Duke Michael, solidifying her power.

Deep Pockets
Cardinal Zizka arrives in Troy and confronts Alex, defending her pragmatic actions. The group prepares to return to the Holy City.

Another Man’s Poison
No specific content is provided for this chapter beyond its title.

All Bad Things
No specific content is provided for this chapter beyond its title.

Saint Tabitha’s Day
The story concludes with a new potential Vicar, Caruso, traveling to the Holy City, mirroring Brother Diaz’s own journey. Baptiste, now known as Mother Beckert, reflects on her experiences with the Chapel.

Character Analysis

Themes & Analysis

Writing Style & Narrative Techniques

✔ Multiple POVs for depth
✔ Dark humor amid brutality
✔ Unflinching violence (beast-men, necromancy)
✔ Political intrigue akin to Game of Thrones

Critical Reception & Legacy

• Praised for: Complex characters, grim realism

• Criticisms: Too violent for some readers

• Legacy: Cements Abercrombie as grimdark’s leading voice

Final Verdict :The Devils Summary

Who Should Read It?

✔ Fans of dark, morally gray fantasy
✔ Lovers of political intrigue and complex characters
✔ Readers who enjoy brutal action with dark humor

Avoid if: You prefer clear-cut heroes and happy endings.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

FAQ About The Devils

Q: Is this a standalone or part of a series?

A: First in a planned series, but works as a self-contained story.

Q: How violent is it?

A: Extremely—expect gore, necromancy, and monstrous transformations.

Q: Are there any heroes?

A: No traditional heroes—everyone is flawed, some redeemable.

Q: What’s the ending like?

A: Bittersweet—Alex wins the throne, but at great cost.

Final Thoughts

The Devils is a masterclass in grimdark fantasy, perfect for readers who crave moral complexity, brutal action, and unforgettable characters.

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Sources & References

• Amazon’s book page
• Goodreaders’s book page
• Author’s image source: joeabercrombie.com
• Book Cover: Amazon.com
• Quotes sources: Goodreads