Fabulous reads – YA novel will have you cawing for more

Six of Crows, Leigh Bardugo, Pan Macmillan

AT first I was skeptical to pick up this novel, surely it could not surpass the wonder that was the Grisha Trilogy? How wrong I was. The first page may have been my captor, but it was the rest of the book that held me steadfast as its solitary prisoner.

Bardugo introduces us to the island city, Kerch. It is overflowing with opulence and class but this is not where her story is set. No, her story follows Kaz, a lieutenant for The Dregs, one of a multitude of gangs operating from the urban underbelly.

Kaz, both cunning and smart, is usually two steps ahead of his competition. He thinks he has struck luck when a Mercher gives him the opportunity to steal a coveted possession from a seemingly impenetrable fortress in the heart of enemy territory. His reward for this impossible mission: riches beyond his wildest dreams.

To complete this task he assembles what appears to be a rag-tag gang of misfits, but together, they could form the key to unlock the prize.

The team: Inej: a Suli girl who was an acrobat before she took on the role of Wraith for Kaz. She is his eyes and ears, is as silent as a shadow and as quick as a flash. She favours a set of daggers and may or may not just have a growing crush on her boss.

Nina: A heart render from Ravka. She was a member of the Grisha army. She brings a lot of humour to the story and is instantly likeable and definitely a force to be reckoned with.

Matthias: A former Drüskelle from Fjerda, the same location where the impenetrable Ice Court can be found. He is very serious but is confronted with an inner conflict; the love for his nation or his growing feelings Nina, his sworn enemy.

Wylan: The demolition expert and slightly aloof. His character will grow on you quite quickly.

Jesper: A member of the dregs and an excellent sharp-shooter. He has a serious gambling problem and seems to have made it his mission to make Wylan blush with his constant inappropriate comments.

Divulging any more on each character will be a complete disservice to the intricate tales Leigh Bardugo has painstakingly woven for each of her lovingly crafted protagonists.

This book literally has it all.

There is action, romance, spying, crime, heartbreak, deceit, trickery and a beautifully crafter world that feels almost real.

If you haven’t read the Grisha Trilogy, do yourself a huge favour and read those first. While it isn’t necessary as this duology can be read on its own, it is definitely worth it. – Lloyd Mackenzie

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