A review by richardw2024
Crooked Kingdom by Leigh Bardugo

adventurous dark emotional medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

I am slightly conflicted with this one. This felt to me like a slower paced book than Six of Crows, which had more past exploration of the characters. Whilst Six of Crows I felt was much quicker paced, this one was more of a slower meander with more backstory and development of the relationships between the characters.

I will say, some aspects of Six of Crows I disliked felt better in this book. There was more genuine peril, and whilst it didn't have as many of these moments they were overall better done in this book. Also some of the relationship stuff was better done in this book. I did like the characters more after reading this book compared to the first book, although I found myself constantly asking (and still am) whether I am meant to like Kaz. I really get the feeling that the author wants me to, but I really couldn't bring myself to. Maybe that's just me?

I enjoyed the beginning and the final 20% - but the middle really dragged for me, hence why I think this is a very solid 3.5 stars for me rather than 4.

Overall I enjoyed this duology but I didn't love it. I would definitely consider reading some more of Leigh Budugo's books in the future.
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