Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

I am a huge fan of the First Law trilogy - I've read it several times over the years. I was so excited to hear about A Little Hatred. Unfortunately, it was a phenomenal letdown. I love Joe's curt, yet simultaneously descriptive style - with excellent gory descriptions of sex and violence. But the plot left me yawning. This book is missing everything that the First Law had. Nuanced, likeable characters. A sense of wonder discovering how magic works, the history behind the Maker's House, the past conflicts and secrets. The shock and awe of first seeing the Bloody Nine. Incredibly cool and frightening villains. The subtle politics behind Adua. Crazy unexpected plot twists. Instead, you have a narrative about several rather bland and predictable characters. A few old heroes make an appearance - but "just 'cause" - not necessarily because they are vital to the story. The bulk of the book focuses on two political conflicts, while slapping you in the face with a bunch of social issues. Perhaps I am too harsh - and we have yet so see some dramatic plot developments in the next books. I really hope so.