Rating: 5/5It had been a while since I had read a fantasy novel and the Covid-induced lockdown seemed a perfect time to do so. And The Six of Crows, the first of a duology, did not disappoint!
This book is set in the same world as Bardugo's earlier-written Grisha trilogy. The key characters are all new though. Bardugo has crafted this world exquisitely with different regions, varied characteristics of their residents, interesting dynamics among them and magical elements. I have not read the trilogy but that does not take away from the enjoyment of this book.
This book is essentially about an heist. Six rogue characters (the leader Kaz, a spy called Inej, sharpshooter Jesper, a Grisha called Nina, prisoner Matthias and runaway privileged Wylan) set out from Ketterdam to Fjerda to rescue a scientist who can make a very powerful, magical drug. The motivations for each of them are different. Each chapter is narrated through the eyes of one of the characters (one of five with Wylan being excluded for some reason and the first and last chapters from the perspective of minor characters), making it an interesting read.
The Six of Crows has all the elements of a good fantasy novel - a gripping plot, an interesting set of characters, magical elements, romance (including a gay one), betrayal and some doses of humour. The Grishaverse, as it is referred to, is now replete with online fandom and backstories. Netflix has signed up the Grisha trilogy as well as the Crow duology. So, while this world is no match for that of Harry Potter, it may be worth spending some time in it!
Pros: Superbly detailed, gripping plot, easy read
Cons: Not for the reader who finds fantasy novels childish
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