Having read Shadow and Bone and being somewhat confused and disappointed by the introduction of new characters in the Netflix adaptation, I was cautiously optimistic going into Six of Crows. This novel, set in the same Grishaverse, is an entirely different story, shifting the focus from Alina Starkov and the Darkling to a fresh cast of characters. These characters, while part of the same universe, occupy the margins of society—outlaws, criminals, and outsiders. For me, this shift marked a stark departure from the more traditional fantasy elements I’d enjoyed in Shadow and Bone, but it also provided an intriguing new perspective.

At its core, Six of Crows is a heist story, centered on a ragtag group of misfits who are tasked with pulling off a seemingly impossible job. The group is made up of six distinct characters: Kaz Brekker, a ruthless and intelligent leader; Inej, the stealthy spy; Jesper, the sharpshooter with a gambling problem; Nina, a Grisha who can manipulate hearts; Matthias, a former soldier; and Wylan, a genius with explosives. The dynamic between these characters is the heart of the story. Each one has a unique backstory and set of motivations, and they all have their own personal struggles, but the tension between them is what keeps the plot moving forward.

While the heist itself is an exciting and well-paced adventure, what really makes Six of Crows stand out are its characters and their development. Kaz is particularly intriguing, driven by vengeance and burdened by his past, while Inej’s unwavering faith and inner strength make her one of the most compelling characters in the Grishaverse. The ensemble is filled with nuance and complexity, with each character struggling with their own sense of morality and identity.

However, despite the engaging characters and fast-paced plot, I found myself struggling to connect with the story in the same way I did with Shadow and Bone. While I recognize that Six of Crows is a highly regarded book in the fantasy genre, the tone of the story is darker and more morally gray than what I typically enjoy. The plot is filled with deception, betrayal, and violence, and while these elements create a gripping narrative, they’re not exactly my taste. I prefer the more classic good-vs-evil dynamic I found in Shadow and Bone, where there’s a clearer sense of right and wrong.

Overall, Six of Crows is a solid and entertaining read, especially for those who enjoy heist stories and morally complex characters. While I personally didn’t connect with it as much as I did with Shadow and Bone, it’s clear that Bardugo is a master at world-building and creating memorable characters. If you’re a fan of darker, grittier fantasy with complex character relationships, Six of Crows will likely be a satisfying read. However, if you’re looking for something lighter or more straightforward, you might prefer Shadow and Bone instead.