Book Review: Red Country by Joe Abercrombie
Isn’t it funny how our aversions can turn into unexpected delights? For someone like me who thought they couldn’t be paid to read a western, diving into Joe Abercrombie’s Red Country felt slightly rebellious. I mean, I lived in Wyoming—for crying out loud! But as I turned the pages, I found myself entranced by this gritty, raw blend of western and fantasy. I suppose deep down, I might just be a closet fan of the genre after all.
Red Country takes us on an audacious journey alongside Shy South and her pseudo-father, Lamb, as they traverse perilous, dust-ridden lands in search of Shy’s kidnapped siblings. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and while this isn’t your typical shoot-’em-up western—there are no guns blazing—the dangers feel palpable and immediate. Despite its slower start, the story builds a sense of urgency that’s hard to resist.
Abercrombie is a master of character development, and his protagonists here are no exception. Shy is fierce and determined, an embodiment of resilience, while Lamb—a character steeped in mystery—defies the typical archetype of cowardice that he’s so easily labeled with. Readers of Abercrombie’s earlier works will undoubtedly discern his true identity, adding layers to the reading experience. What I found particularly resonant was the dynamic between Shy and Temple, a lawyer whose choices reflect our often conflicted natures. Temple, ever the opportunist, embodies the struggle of choosing the easy way versus the right way—a theme that struck a chord with me.
As I reflected on Temple’s choices, I couldn’t help but appreciate Abercrombie’s ability to weave profound insights into the narrative. One line that stood out for me was, “And Temple always took the easy way. Even when he knew it was the wrong way.” This resonated deeply, especially as I navigated my own needs for self-improvement—a reminder that the path of least resistance often leads to stagnation.
Abercrombie’s prose is laced with quotable gems. Lines like “To be brave among friends was nothing. To have the world against you and pick your path regardless – there is courage” gave me pause. The hallmark of great storytelling, I believe, is the ability to leave readers pondering long after the final page is turned, and Red Country does just that.
For fans of slower-burn narratives, this book may start gently, but it quickly escalates into an action-packed saga filled with ethical dilemmas, bloody confrontations, and deeply flawed characters. It balances the gritty darkness of the genre with moments of unexpected levity, proving that it doesn’t shy away from the complexities of the human experience.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a thought-provoking escapade that deftly combines western themes with rich character exploration, Red Country is your ticket. Whether you’re a long-time Abercrombie fan or someone like me who’s made a surprising detour into the world of westerns, this book is sure to leave an indelible mark. I walked away not only entertained but sparked with a renewed desire to tackle my own life’s challenges head-on.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (Very Highly Recommended)