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The Trouble With Peace
Joe Abercrombie

The Trouble With Peace

Quick Answer

Read "The Trouble With Peace" as the 2nd book in the The Age of Madness sequence. This follows the recommended publication order to preserve character development.

Sequence Warning

⚠️ Do NOT read before "A Little Hatred" (Book 1)

❓ Can I skip this book?
❌ No — Required

This book is essential to the core narrative and character development.

Verdict Insight: As the 2nd installment, this volume is critical for following the central narrative progression and plot development.

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2020512 ppWikidataSource
Conspiracy. Betrayal. Rebellion. Peace is just another kind of battlefield . . . Savine dan Glokta, once Adua’s most powerful investor, finds her judgement, fortune and reputation in tatters. But she still has all her ambitions, and no scruple will be permitted to stand in her way. For heroes like Leo dan Brock and Stour Nightfall, only happy with swords drawn, peace is an ordeal to end as soon as possible. But grievances must be nursed, power seized and allies gathered first, while Rikke must master the power of the Long Eye . . . before it kills her. Unrest worms into every layer of society. The Breakers still lurk in the shadows, plotting to free the common man from his shackles, while noblemen bicker for their own advantage. Orso struggles to find a safe path through the maze of knives that is politics, only for his enemies, and his debts, to multiply. The old ways are swept aside, and the old leaders with them, but those who would seize the reins of power will find no alliance, no friendship, and no peace, lasts forever. (Publisher's Synopsis)
Next Recommended Book

The Wisdom Of Crowds

Book #3 of 3 in Series

Complete Series Reading Order

Publication Order

Preserves character reveals and plot twists exactly as the author intended.

Chronological Order

May spoil surprises but improves timeline clarity for deep lore fans.

Order Confidence

high Confidence

Why this order?

Our team of curators analyzes publication history, author interviews, and internal narrative continuity to establish the definitive reading sequence. This ensures zero spoilers and maximum narrative impact.

Why This Order Is Confusing

Many reading lists for The Age of Madness conflict because early publishers often labeled short story collections as standalone novels, or rearranged internal chronologies for marketing. This guide follows original author intent and narrative continuity to settle the debate for good.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I skip reading The Trouble With Peace?

This book is essential to the core narrative and character development.

Can I read The Trouble With Peace before A Little Hatred?

No. We recommend reading A Little Hatred first. The Trouble With Peace is the 2th book in the series and follows the core narrative established in earlier volumes.

Is The Trouble With Peace required reading for the The Age of Madness?

Yes, it is a core installment in the series reading order and contains critical character development and plot progression.

What comes after The Trouble With Peace in the reading order?

The next recommended book after The Trouble With Peace is The Wisdom Of Crowds (Book #3).