TL;DR
In the bustling hub of Ketterdam, a crew of six dangerous outcasts with unique skills is assembled for an impossible heist. Led by the cunning Kaz Brekker, they must infiltrate the impenetrable Ice Court, a military stronghold, to retrieve a hostage with the power to unleash chaos upon the world. As they navigate treacherous landscapes, outsmart formidable enemies, and confront their own dark pasts, the crew’s loyalty to one another is tested, and their individual motives intertwine with the fate of the Grishaverse.
Table of contents
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Author & Writing Background
Leigh Bardugo is a #1 New York Times bestselling author known for her captivating fantasy novels, particularly within the Grishaverse universe. Her writing is characterized by intricate world-building, morally complex characters, and fast-paced plots. Before “Six of Crows”, she gained recognition for the “Shadow and Bone” trilogy.
Key Takeaways
The Dregs
A notorious gang in Ketterdam led by Kaz Brekker, known for their cunning and ruthlessness. Each member possesses unique skills and a dark past, making them a formidable force in the criminal underworld.
Kaz Brekker
The mastermind behind the heist, Kaz is a brilliant strategist and thief with a reputation for being cold and calculating. He harbors deep secrets and a thirst for vengeance.
Inej Ghafa
Known as the Wraith, Inej is a skilled spy and acrobat with a talent for stealth and information gathering. Her unwavering loyalty and moral compass guide the team.
Jesper Fahey
A sharpshooter with a gambling addiction, Jesper brings humor and quick wit to the crew. His impulsiveness often leads to trouble, but his loyalty remains steadfast.
Wylan Van Eck
A runaway merchant’s son with a talent for demolition, Wylan is the team’s explosives expert. Despite his sheltered upbringing, he proves his worth and courage throughout the heist.
Nina Zenik
A Grisha Heartrender with the power to manipulate human emotions and physiology, Nina’s abilities are crucial to the team’s success. She struggles with her past and a dangerous addiction.
Matthias Helvar
A former drüskelle, a witch hunter from Fjerda, Matthias is initially at odds with the crew due to his hatred for Grisha. However, he gradually develops a complex relationship with Nina, challenging his prejudices.
The Ice Court Heist
The central plot of the book revolves around the crew’s daring attempt to infiltrate the Ice Court, an impenetrable fortress, to retrieve a valuable hostage with the potential to alter the world’s balance of power.
FAQ about Six of Crows
Is Six of Crows a standalone book or part of a series?
Six of Crows is part of the Grishaverse, but it’s a duology with its sequel, Crooked Kingdom. While it references events and characters from the Shadow and Bone trilogy, it can be enjoyed independently.
What age range is Six of Crows appropriate for?
The book is typically recommended for young adult readers and above due to its mature themes, violence, and complex character relationships.
Does the book have a romantic subplot?
Yes, there are several romantic subplots intertwined with the main heist storyline, adding depth and complexity to the characters’ relationships.
Six of Crows Quotes
- ”No mourners, no funerals. Among them, it passed for ‘good luck.‘"
- "Better terrible truths than kind lies."
- "Greed may do your bidding, but death serves no man.”