Powerful ideas from top nonfiction
Try Blinkist to get the key ideas from 7,500+ bestselling nonfiction titles and podcasts. Listen or read in just 15 minutes.
Start your free trial
Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Last Argument of Kings summary
Brief summary
Last Argument of Kings by Joe Abercrombie is a gripping fantasy novel that follows the power struggles and betrayals of multiple characters in the quest for ultimate control. It's a dark and thrilling conclusion to the First Law trilogy.
Topics
Table of Contents
Last Argument of Kings
Summary of key ideas
Struggle for Power and Redemption
In Last Argument of Kings by Joe Abercrombie, the final book of the First Law Trilogy, the author takes us back to the war-torn world of the Union, the North, and the Gurkish Empire. The story delves into the struggle for power, the journey of redemption, and the cost of ambition. We meet the ruthless Inquisitor Glokta, the self-centered Captain Jezal dan Luthar, and the infamous Logen Ninefingers, each with their own personal battles to fight.
Glokta, once a promising swordsman, is now a crippled torturer working for the Union’s Inquisition. Despite his physical limitations, he uses his sharp mind and cunning to navigate the treacherous political landscape. Jezal, who was once focused solely on his own advancement, finds himself torn between his selfish desires and his growing sense of responsibility towards the people he once looked down upon. Logen, the infamous barbarian, struggles with his inner demons as he tries to leave his violent past behind.
Political Intrigue and Machiavellian Schemes
As the story unfolds, we witness the escalating tensions between the Union and the North, the manipulative schemes of the Gurkish Emperor, and the power struggles within the Union itself. Abercrombie masterfully weaves a tale of political intrigue and betrayal, showcasing the ugly side of ambition and the lengths people will go to secure power.
Glokta, with his keen understanding of human nature, plays a pivotal role in uncovering and thwarting various plots against the Union. Jezal, despite his initial reluctance, finds himself thrust into the heart of the political arena, forced to make difficult decisions that will shape the future of the realm. Logen, haunted by his violent alter-ego, the Bloody-Nine, tries to stay true to his promise of leaving behind his savage ways.
War, Sacrifice, and Unexpected Alliances
As the war between the Union and the North becomes inevitable, we witness the brutal realities of battle and the sacrifices it demands. Abercrombie doesn’t shy away from depicting the horrors of war, showing us the devastating impact it has on both soldiers and civilians. Amidst the chaos, unexpected alliances are formed, and unlikely heroes emerge, each grappling with their own moral dilemmas.
Logen, Jezal, and Glokta, each in their own way, are forced to confront their past actions and make choices that will define their future. The author skillfully develops their characters, showing us their vulnerabilities, their strengths, and the internal struggles that drive their decisions.
Conclusion and Reflection
In the climactic conclusion of Last Argument of Kings, Abercrombie delivers a thought-provoking reflection on power, morality, and the human condition. The characters, who started the series as archetypes of fantasy tropes, are now complex, flawed individuals, shaped by their experiences and choices.
The title, Last Argument of Kings, refers to the ultimate resort to war when all other means of persuasion have failed. As the characters grapple with their personal battles and the larger conflict at hand, we are left pondering the cost of ambition, the nature of power, and the thin line between heroism and villainy. In the end, Abercrombie leaves us with no easy answers, only a deep understanding of the complexities of human nature.
How do we create content on this page?
More knowledge in less time
Read or listen
Get the key ideas from nonfiction bestsellers in minutes, not hours.
Find your next read
Get book lists curated by experts and personalized recommendations.
Shortcasts New
We’ve teamed up with podcast creators to bring you key insights from podcasts.
What is Last Argument of Kings about?
Last Argument of Kings is the third book in Joe Abercrombie's gritty fantasy series, The First Law. Set in a world of war, politics, and betrayal, the novel follows the power struggles between rival factions as they vie for control of the kingdom. With complex characters and unexpected plot twists, it delves into the darker side of human nature and the consequences of seeking ultimate power.
Last Argument of Kings Review
Last Argument of Kings (2008) concludes Joe Abercrombie's gritty fantasy trilogy with political intrigue, betrayal, and epic battles. Here's why this book is worth your time:
- Featuring complex characters with flawed personalities and conflicting motivations, the story unfolds in unpredictable ways, keeping readers engaged.
- The book navigates moral ambiguity and the consequences of power, offering a realistic and thought-provoking exploration of human nature.
- With its masterful world-building and intricate plot twists, the book ensures a thrilling and immersive reading experience that never fails to captivate.
Who should read Last Argument of Kings?
Readers who enjoy dark and gritty fantasy novels
Fans of complex and morally ambiguous characters
Those who appreciate intricate and unpredictable plot twists
Categories with Last Argument of Kings
Book summaries like Last Argument of Kings
People ❤️ Blinkist
Sven O.
It's highly addictive to get core insights on personally relevant topics without repetition or triviality. Added to that the apps ability to suggest kindred interests opens up a foundation of knowledge.
Thi Viet Quynh N.
Great app. Good selection of book summaries you can read or listen to while commuting. Instead of scrolling through your social media news feed, this is a much better way to spend your spare time in my opinion.
Jonathan A.
Life changing. The concept of being able to grasp a book's main point in such a short time truly opens multiple opportunities to grow every area of your life at a faster rate.
Renee D.
Great app. Addicting. Perfect for wait times, morning coffee, evening before bed. Extremely well written, thorough, easy to use.
People also liked these summaries
4.7 Stars
Average ratings on iOS and Google Play
32 Million
Downloads on all platforms
10+ years
Experience igniting personal growth
Last Argument of Kings FAQs
What is the main message of Last Argument of Kings?
The main message of Last Argument of Kings revolves around power struggles and the consequences of seeking power.
How long does it take to read Last Argument of Kings?
Reading Last Argument of Kings takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in a fraction of that time.
Is Last Argument of Kings a good book? Is it worth reading?
Last Argument of Kings is a compelling read due to its intricate plot and complex characters. It is definitely worth diving into.
Who is the author of Last Argument of Kings?
Joe Abercrombie is the author of Last Argument of Kings.
What to read after Last Argument of Kings?
If you're wondering what to read next after Last Argument of Kings, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell
- Daughter of the Blood by Anne Bishop
- Season of Mists by Neil Gaiman
- King of Thorns by Mark Lawrence
- Weaveworld by Clive Barker
- Godsgrave by Jay Kristoff
- Darkness Becomes Her by Kelly Keaton
- Breath of Fire by Amanda Bouchet
- The Winner's Curse by Marie Rutkoski
- Rhapsodic by Laura Thalassa