In a significant week for sales, Joe Abercrombie’s new novel, The Devils (Gollancz), has achieved the top position on the Independent Bookshop chart, marking the author’s best performance to date, as reported by NielsenIQ BookScan.

Sales Highlights

Though specific sales numbers from independent bookshops remain undisclosed, NielsenIQ reveals that Abercrombie’s acclaimed title reached this coveted rank with an average selling price (ASP) nearly matching its £25 recommended retail price (RRP). This success illustrates readers’ willingness to invest in high-quality literature.

Industry Insights

Jo Zebedee, from The Secret Bookshelf in Carrickfergus, commented on the book’s popularity, stating, “The Devils has been a hit with us, with several customer orders picked up this week.” She attributes the excitement to Abercrombie’s devoted fan base and the anticipation surrounding his latest entry in the fantasy genre.

Zebedee reflects on Abercrombie’s endearing qualities as an author, recalling an event where he generously shared the spotlight, allowing others to engage more during discussions. She notes, “His thoughtfulness in choosing the ‘right’ reading for his audience, his delivery and humour, were an inspiration to see.”

As traditional fantasy, including grimdark elements, faces challenges from the growing romantasy trend, this recent surge in sales for Abercrombie’s work is seen as a hopeful sign for the genre’s future.

Other Notable Entries

Following Abercrombie, Aminatta Forna’s Happiness (Bloomsbury) impressively re-enters the charts after six years, realizing a staggering 25,960% increase in sales last week, now accounting for a quarter of its overall lifetime sales.

New releases dominate the Independent Bookshop chart, with Florence Knapp’s debut, The Names (Phoenix), debuting at third. Last week’s leader, Robert Macfarlane’s Is a River Alive? (Hamish Hamilton), now ranks fourth, followed by the children’s graphic novel, Donut Squad: Take Over the World by Neill Cameron, rounding out the top five.

Comparative Chart Performance

It’s notable that Richard Osman’s We Solve Murders (Penguin), the top title in the broader Total Consumer Market, only managed to reach the 13th position within the Independent Bookshop chart, attributed largely to differences in pricing strategies.