Crooked Kingdom
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Screen for YOUR familyParent's Guide to Crooked Kingdom
Crooked Kingdom is the second novel in Leigh Bardugo's "Six of Crows" duology, a young adult fantasy set in the elaborate Grishaverse. Following the events of "Six of Crows," the story delves deeper into the lives of Kaz Brekker and his crew of criminal prodigies as they navigate the treacherous underworld of Ketterdam, seeking revenge and fighting for their lives after a daring heist goes awry. The narrative is a complex tale of intricate schemes, loyalty, betrayal, and the personal struggles of its diverse cast of characters, including developing romantic relationships and battles with addiction. This book is characterized by its gritty, dark, and often violent atmosphere, exploring themes of trauma, survival, and moral ambiguity. While it features elements of magic and fantasy, the core of the story centers on the characters' cunning and resilience in a dangerous world. Due to its mature themes, including significant violence, substance abuse, and intense psychological content, it is generally recommended for older young adult readers. The book is lauded for its diverse representation and intricate plotting, offering a compelling read for those ready for a more challenging and emotionally resonant fantasy experience.
Things to Consider
LGBTQ & Gender Identity
The book features confirmed LGBTQ+ characters and developing same-sex romantic relationships. Jesper Fahey is bisexual, and his romantic relationship with Wylan Van Eck develops throughout the story. Nina Zenik is bisexual, with her sexuality being acknowledged through her flirtations and later explored in the broader Grishaverse.
Jesper Fahey and Wylan Van Eck have a developing romantic subplot in Crooked Kingdom, which includes flirtation and a kiss, explicitly identified as a "wonderful gay romance" by readers. Nina Zenik's bisexuality is established through her stated attraction to both men and women, with the author confirming her sexuality and later exploring her non-binary love interest Hanne Brum in subsequent books.
Violence
The novel is described as dark and violent, with the plot centered around a crew of criminals fighting for survival in a dangerous city. It includes numerous confrontations, acts of vengeance, and graphic outcomes, including a significant character death and the use of supernatural abilities for violent ends.
Witchcraft & Occult
Magic and supernatural abilities, known as Grisha powers, are fundamental to the world. One main character explicitly develops powers related to necromancy, involving the control and attempted resurrection of the dead, elevating the occult presence beyond typical fantasy magic.
Substance Use
Substance use is a central and significant theme in the book, revolving around the highly addictive drug 'jurda parem.' A main character's struggle with addiction and withdrawal from this drug is a core part of her character arc.
Scary & Intense Content
The novel is consistently dark, violent, and emotionally intense, featuring high-stakes situations, betrayal, psychological trauma, and a pervasive sense of danger. The narrative explores grim backstories and includes frightening supernatural elements, making for a suspenseful and often unsettling read.
Disrespect & Rebellion
The core premise of the story involves a gang of criminal protagonists who operate entirely outside societal laws and conventions. They consistently defy authority figures and engage in rebellious acts, making disrespect for established order a fundamental theme.
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Additional Context
Best For Ages
15+ due to pervasive mature themes including graphic violence, intense psychological trauma, significant substance abuse and addiction, and complex, morally ambiguous situations within a criminal underworld.
Good to Know
The content intensity, particularly concerning violence, trauma, and substance abuse, increases from the first book, Six of Crows, to Crooked Kingdom. The ages of the main characters (late teens) often feel young for the severity of their actions and experiences, a common point of discussion among readers. While the author made a conscious decision for the Grishaverse to not include homophobia, the criminal setting presents other significant moral challenges.
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