Book Review: The Six of Crows Duology by Leigh Bardugo

Ketterdam: a bustling hub of international trade where anything can be had for the right price - and no one knows that better than criminal prodigy Kaz Brekker. Kaz is offered a chance at a deadly heist that could make him rich beyond his wildest dreams. But he can’t pull it off alone...

A convict with a thirst for revenge.

A sharpshooter who can’t walk away from a wager.

A runaway with a privileged past.

A spy known as the Wraith.

A Heartrender using her magic to survive the slums.

A thief with a gift for unlikely escapes.

Kaz’s crew is the only thing that might stand between the world and destruction - if they don’t kill each other first.

Exciting and action-packed, this series combines all the best bits of fantasy with spies, thieves, tension, and thrills. 

Although these books can be read as standalones, they do reference some key events and characters from the original Shadow and Bone trilogy, set in the same world. If you're new to the Grishaverse, I'd definitely recommend reading Shadow and Bone first - and you can check out my Shadow and Bone trilogy review. That being said, I think I actually preferred Six of Crows. Both series are excellent, but this duology just has an extra special edge. 

Both books have clear and exciting plots, but this is as much a character-driven story as one led by action. While Shadow and Bone has a single main character - Alina Starkov - these books have a team of interesting characters who are all unique yet each is integral to the story. From lockpicking to sharpshooting to magical powers and even language skills, every member of the group is valid and intriguing to read about. 

Of course, though, it's not all fights and escaping from difficult situations. There is plenty of humour too, especially as the diverse group get to know one another better. There's also more than a hint of romance, adding an extra dimension to the story and creating some brilliant pairings!

Although the story focuses primarily on the characters and their mission, the fantasy world really helps to bring the books to life. The city of Ketterdam is vivid and realistic; it's all too easy to imagine yourself walking the streets of the Barrel alongside Kaz's crew. From the smell of the canals to the dark alleyways and crooked buildings, Ketterdam comes to life on every page.

Six of Crows and Crooked Kingdom are two more outstanding books from the super-talented Leigh Bardugo!

Rating: 5 stars

The Six of Crows Duology is available to buy now. 

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Have you read this series? Let me know in the comments below!