The Crows Duology
"Six of Crows" and "Crooked Kingdom" by Leigh Bardugo were one of my favourite fantasy reads for the year! If you're looking for a fantasy series that is all about the heist, with a brilliant, intricate plot and characters you'll instantly fall for, this is it. While the original Shadow and Bone Trilogy established the Grishaverse, I definitely like this duology better, offering a sharper focus, higher stakes, and more interesting characters.
The story isn't about saving the world; it's about pulling off the impossible job for a massive payday. Set in the city of Ketterdam, which feels like a grittier Amsterdam, the story follows Kaz Brekker, a mastermind with a notoriously dark reputation, as he assembles an unlikely crew of six seemingly lonely outcasts for an insane, high-stakes mission.
What makes these books truly shine is the characters, or the Dregs. Every member of the crew - Kaz (Dirtyhands), Inej (the Wraith), Jesper (the sharpshooter), Wylan (the runaway), Nina (the Grisha Heartrender), and Matthias (the Fjerdan convict) - is incredibly complex, morally grey, and has a fascinating, heartbreaking, backstory. The chemistry between them, the witty banter, and the development of their individual relationships are one of the best parts of the entire Grishaverse.
The plots in both books are incredibly tight and suspenseful. Six of Crows is the perfect setup and execution of the impossible heist, while Crooked Kingdom is a masterful follow-up that deals with the fallout, betrayal, and a thrilling gang war. The author’s writing is sharp, and the double-crosses and intricate planning truly kept me on the edge of my seat. If you're into non-stop action, brilliant strategies, and rooting for a band of flawed, beloved criminals, this duology is a must-read. I don’t really want it to end… 😢
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
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Leigh Bardugo's The Crows Duology expands the Grishaverse by zeroing in on a darker, more complex tale of crime and loyalty. The duology stands out by focusing on an ensemble cast, known as the Dregs, each with deeply crafted personalities and backstories that bring emotional depth to the adventure. The city of Ketterdam, vividly painted as a gritty, mercantile hub reminiscent of Amsterdam, serves as the perfect backdrop for this tale of an impossible heist. The series shines in its exploration of moral ambiguity, as the characters navigate a world filled with betrayal and shifting alliances. Kaz Brekker, the mastermind known as "Dirtyhands," is a fascinating antihero whose reputation precedes him, while Inej "the Wraith," Jesper the sharpshooter, and the other crew members bring unique skills and emotional layers to the group dynamic. This duology appeals not only for its tight, suspenseful plots but also for how it handles the consequences of crime and the human connections that form under pressure. The author’s masterful writing makes the double-crosses and strategies feel fresh and unpredictable. For readers seeking a fantasy story that blends action, strategic heists, and character-driven drama, these books are an exceptional choice. The popularity of the Grishaverse is underscored by its New York Times-best-selling status, and Bardugo’s ability to weave diverse cultural influences into her world-building adds authenticity and immersion. Fans of fantasy who enjoy stories about flawed antiheroes, intricate world-building, and heartfelt relationships will find The Crows Duology unforgettable and worth revisiting multiple times.
