I wrote this review awhile ago and I don’t know why I didn’t post it. So here it is
I am a big grishaverse fan and was so excited when I heard about this book and pre-ordered it as soon as I could. Unfortunately life got in the way and I am only just getting round to reviewing it.
To start with this book is absolutely stunning. The dust jacket is nice enough but the cover under neath is just beautiful and I love it ❤️
The story follows King Nikolai and Zoya, now the kings general a few years after the events of the shadow of bone trilogy. Nina, from six of crows, story happens long side the kings. Although both storylines mention the characters involved in the other they are completely separate which I found slightly disappointing as I thought they would cross over at some point. It was almost like reading two books at the same time. I will have to see if there stories have any affect on one another in the sequel.
Overall both storielines were good. Bardugo as usual made the geisha world come alive on the page. She cleverly crafted a story that pushed the boundaries of society. Prejudice and racism is at the forefront on Nina’s story and made me think about the way society is built to keep the wheel of intolerance turning.
Bardugo masterly shows the complexity of ruling a nation and all the schemes and betrayals a king has to try avoid. Everyone is out to undermine Nikolai’s rule and things are made more difficult as he try’s to keep the darkness inside him hidden.
Zoya is not a lovable character. She is cold are bristled but she is strong and some to respect. I like that she is not your usually nice, fully of smiles female. She is a warrior and will do what is necessary to keep the people of Ravka safe.
The book started with a bang but the lagged a little but then picked up again. The ending was great and I can’t wait to read the next one.
W.R.L Morris-Author 