by Niraja @ Fantastic Books and Where to Find Them

Book Review: Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo

Rating: 5/5

“The water hears and understands. The ice does not forgive.”

six-of-crows
Image Source: Goodreads

Six of Crows is a book that I’ve been meaning to read since its release, and it sat in my reading list for quite a long time. With the recent release of its sequel – Crooked Kingdom – though, I knew I had to read it. And I’m so glad I did.

Six of Crows is different from anything I’ve ever read. Although it does have some characteristics typical of all fantasy novels to it, such as superpowers and a prejudiced society, Six of Crows shines with main characters who are all outcasts. Kaz Brekker is the ultimate antihero, and the rest of his crew – Jesper, Inej, Nina, Matthias, and Wylan – are all just as “despicable.” These kids have been forced to cheat, swindle, and lie to survive, yet I think it’s important to state that they are far from evil; rather, they are pillars of good and conscience that are the foundation for this fantastic story.

Six of Crows is also the definition of balance. It is dark, gritty, and a little violent, but it is also laugh-out-loud hilarious. All of the characters bring humor even in the midst of near-death and destruction. In addition, the female characters do not hide in their male counterparts’ shadows. Instead, Inej and Nina are feminine and just as powerful and capable as the men, if not stronger. The book is also very well-written, and I love the aesthetic design of it. The cover perfect captures the whole story’s mood, and the blackened pages are not only symbolic but also truly contribute to a wholesome, enjoyable reading experience.

All in all, Six of Crows is a novel that I’d recommend to all readers, as its superb, lovable characters and breathtaking, intricate plot will be sure to sweep you off your feet. I can’t wait to start Crooked Kingdom, as well as Bardugo’s The Grisha Trilogy, which should offer more insight into the wonderful world of the Grisha.

Have you read Six of Crows? Crooked Kingdom? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

~Niraja

43 thoughts on “Book Review: Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo”

  4. Yay! I’m so happy I found another fellow Six of Crows fan! I totally agree what you said about all the characters and how the story is all about balance. Kaz is definitely the epitome of antiheroes. The second book came out recently and although I haven’t read it yet, I have high hopes. Great review!

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  9. Six of Crows is amazing! I truly had a wonderful experience reading it! When I found out it was out in my local bookstore, I screamed! XD Hopefully, I’ll buy it soon! This is a great review, it boosted up my day! 😀

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  10. I found this book to be one of those that I liked more after I had sat on it for a while. I didn’t love it right away, but as Crooked Kingdoms came closer to coming out, I found I couldn’t wait to read it.

    I’ll hopefully be getting to that soon!

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  11. OHHH I’m so glad you enjoyed this as much as I did because I’M OBSESSED with this book ❤ there's literally nothing I disliked, the plots are crazy good and the characters are super interesting (except maybe Jesper I don't really like him for some reasons haha) and you're totally right on it being a well balanced book. Everything is there, brutality, adorable romance, awkwardness, FEELS! 😀 My copy of Crooked Kingdom is on its way but I really can't wait! Lovely review 😀

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  13. I’m so glad you enjoyed this story so much! I haven’t read it yet, and I’m probably the only one haha, but I really need to someday. I never heard anything bad about it, and since I’m more and more getting into fantasy, I really should give it a try. Thank you for this great review!

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    1. I felt like I was the only one who hadn’t read this book before I got to it, too, so no worries! I’ve been getting into fantasy lately as well, and this book is definitely one of the reasons why I’ve come to love the genre. I can’t wait to hear your thoughts on it if you decide to read it anytime soon. No problem, and thank you so much for commenting! You’re always so kind!❤

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  16. Yassssssssssss. I love your review so much. For someone who put off reading Six of Crows and LOVED it after finishing it, I can’t believe I didn’t read it sooner.

    Great review, by the way!

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  17. Great review 🙂 This duology is SO awesome and I also loved the grittiness paired with the fun heist plot. Plus, any book that can pack in that many surprising twists is remarkable. I ended up second guessing myself at every turn lol. I also really liked how well-developed and interesting the characters are, though Kaz has got to be my favourite character just because I’m fascinated by anti-heroes 🙂 I recently finished Crooked Kingdom and it was just as excellent!!

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