Reviews with content warning for Pandemic/Epidemic - Hämärän valtakunta

This book was fun, very tense, full of beautiful vivid descriptions and breath-taking fight scenes. It created a world that twists the flaws of our own, yet mirrors them closely, and a lovable cast.
However, I refuse to engage further with Leigh Bardugo after her shifty declarations about the genocide of the Palestinian people, so this is my send-off message to her.

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angelo_vossen's review against another edition

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adventurous emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

"Crooked Kingdom" by Leigh Bardugo is a remarkable sequel that expands upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, "Six of Crows." Set in the gritty and vibrant world of Ketterdam, Bardugo delves even deeper into the lives of Kaz Brekker and his crew of misfits as they navigate the treacherous waters of power, betrayal, and redemption.

One of the most striking aspects of "Crooked Kingdom" is Bardugo's ability to craft a complex and multi-layered narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. The plot is intricately constructed, filled with unexpected twists and turns that constantly challenge the characters and push the story forward. This is once again accomplished by changing between the protagonists’ points of view each chapter - and finally I got Wylan’s perspective as asked for in my review of „Six of Crows“! From elaborate heists to political intrigue, the novel is a masterclass in storytelling, seamlessly blending action, suspense, and emotional depth.

Central to the success of "Crooked Kingdom" are its richly drawn characters, each with their own distinct personalities, motivations, and flaws. Kaz, Inej, Jesper, Wylan, Nina, and Matthias are more than just members of a heist crew; they are fully realized individuals with their own pasts and desires. Bardugo deftly explores their relationships and internal struggles, allowing readers to empathize with them even as they grapple with their own demons.

Moreover, the world-building in "Crooked Kingdom" is nothing short of extraordinary. Bardugo paints a vivid picture of Ketterdam, a city teeming with crime, corruption, and inequality. From the bustling streets of the Barrel to the opulent halls of the Merchant Council, the setting feels alive and immersive, providing the perfect backdrop for the story's unfolding drama.

But perhaps the most compelling aspect of "Crooked Kingdom" is its exploration of themes such as friendship, loyalty, and the nature of power. As the characters confront their pasts and wrestle with their own morality, they are forced to confront difficult questions about who they are and what they believe in. In doing so, they undergo profound transformations that are both heart-wrenching and inspiring to witness. Bardugo weaves in backstories effortlessly jumping between past and present without it ever feeling out of place.

Compared to the first book in this duology, I found that for my liking at times it felt like too much was going on in the plot simultaneously. It was not impossible to follow the story line, but sometimes it felt slightly overwhelming.

Additionally, I wonder why it was necessary for Matthias to die in the end. Same as Jesper, I was convinced that all six of my beloved protagonists would make it out alive. I get that for aspects of realism one of the characters met death, but in this case it felt kind of random and was not necessary for the story to come together in my opinion. Maybe this was setting up another story? I might have to wait and see.

I was shattered once I realized that there was a sequel to „Shadow and Bone“ (a show based on a trilogy by Bardugo set in the same universe) planned to cover the story told in „Six of Crows“. Such a tease. I really wish that I would have the chance to watch this story being brought to life on TV. But alas, isn‘t that always the way it goes with shows being cancelled before having been able to tell the entire story?

In conclusion, "Crooked Kingdom" is a stunning achievement that solidifies Leigh Bardugo's status as one of the preeminent voices in fantasy literature today. With its gripping plot, unforgettable characters, and thought-provoking themes, it is a book that will stay with readers long after they have turned the final page.

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