Books To Read After “Crooked Kingdom”

“King of Scars” allows us to explore the intriguing character of Nikolai Lantsov in greater depth. As the charming king with a haunted past, Nikolai must navigate political pressures while battling darker forces within himself. This tale is a captivating blend of politics, magic, and personal struggle, perfectly suited for “Crooked Kingdom” fans.

A sequel to “King of Scars,” “Rule of Wolves” continues the compelling story of Nikolai and the Grishaverse. Faced with the threat of war, Nikolai must outmaneuver his enemies and grapple with secrets that may shatter his world. Bardugo delivers an action-packed narrative full of twists, intrigue, and complex characters.

This illustrated collection of short stories brings to life the saints of the Grishaverse, delving into their legends and lore. Each tale is a fascinating exploration of faith, power, and the human condition, offering a richer understanding of the world Bardugo has created. “The Lives of Saints” is an excellent choice for readers wanting to explore the mythology of the Grishaverse.

While “Six of Crows” is technically a prequel to “Crooked Kingdom,” revisiting it after the sequel can provide a new perspective on its characters and plot. This book showcases the initial assembly of the crew and their first grand heist, enriching your understanding of the characters’ arcs in “Crooked Kingdom.”

Set in 1889 Paris, “The Gilded Wolves” centers on a diverse crew of talented outcasts. Similar to “Crooked Kingdom,” it blends fantasy, history, and heist elements. The interplay between the ensemble of characters, each with their own secrets and motives, contributes to its engaging narrative.

In “The Lies of Locke Lamora,” you will follow a band of skilled thieves in the gritty city of Camorr, inspired by late medieval Venice. Much like “Crooked Kingdom,” it combines a fast-paced plot with a strong focus on character development, making it a compelling read for Bardugo’s fans.

“Mistborn: The Final Empire” combines fantasy and heist elements into a compelling narrative. A group of thieves set out to accomplish the impossible: overthrowing a seemingly invincible tyrant. With a unique magic system, a detailed world, and an engaging plot, it will surely appeal to “Crooked Kingdom” fans.

“The Palace Job” is a high-fantasy caper set in a world teeming with magic and mythical creatures. It focuses on a motley crew planning a daring theft from the most secure building in the republic. Weekes’ novel is noted for its wit, diverse characters, and intricate plot, mirroring many elements that make “Crooked Kingdom” such a standout.

A contemporary twist on the heist genre, “Heist Society” introduces us to Katarina Bishop, a teenage girl from a family of thieves who must pull off an incredible heist to save her father. The novel offers fast-paced action, clever plans, and engaging characters, making it a great read for those who loved the heist aspect of “Crooked Kingdom.”

“A Darker Shade of Magic” invites readers to explore not one but four parallel Londons, each with a different degree of magic and a distinct atmosphere. The story follows Kell, a magician with the rare ability to travel between these Londons, and his unlikely partnership with a daring pickpocket. If you loved the intricate world-building and magic system of “Crooked Kingdom,” this book should be on your list.

“The Cruel Prince” transports you to the ruthless world of faeries, where political intrigue, deception, and power games abound. The story follows a human girl struggling to earn her place in this world, with a narrative marked by twists, betrayal, and strategic alliances. Much like “Crooked Kingdom,” this novel presents a dark and complex fantasy realm that keeps you gripped.

Leigh Bardugo’s “The Ninth House” is a departure from the Grishaverse, yet retains her signature style of crafting complex and dark settings. It is set in a secret society at Yale, where magic, power, and the supernatural intertwine with everyday student life. The tale revolves around Alex Stern, a young woman with the ability to see ghosts, and her navigation through this shadowy world. If you loved the dark undertones and intricate storyline in “Crooked Kingdom,” “The Ninth House” will likely appeal to you.

“The Poppy War” presents Rin, a war orphan who escapes her oppressive life by gaining admission to an elite military school. As she navigates her way through political intrigue, Rin must come to terms with her own power and the cost of wielding it. With its intense character development and unique setting inspired by 20th-century China, this novel will engage readers who appreciate the complexity of Bardugo’s characters.

“Nevernight” introduces us to Mia Corvere, a young woman seeking revenge for the brutal death of her family. To achieve her goal, Mia becomes part of a deadly group of assassins, which propels her into a world of danger and deception. With its dark tone and complex, strategy-minded protagonist, “Nevernight” is sure to capture the interest of “Crooked Kingdom” fans.

“Red Queen” presents a world divided by blood—those with common Red blood serve the Silver-blooded elite who are gifted with superhuman abilities. The story centers on Mare, a Red girl whose life changes when she manifests powers of her own. Much like “Crooked Kingdom,” the novel is a tale of strategy, deception, and a fight for justice, featuring a protagonist who is both strong and deeply flawed.

In this novel, a young woman is taken captive in a magical realm. With intricate world-building, a blend of fantasy and romance, and strong, complex characters, this series is a great choice for those who enjoy the Grishaverse.

This epic fantasy follows the life of Kvothe, a man with a mythical past. His tale is full of magic, adventure, and danger, much like Kaz’s in “Crooked Kingdom.” The book’s focus on a central charismatic and mysterious character will appeal to Bardugo’s fans.

Set in a brutal world inspired by Ancient Rome, this novel offers a dual narrative from a slave and a soldier. Its engaging plot, detailed world-building, and morally complex characters echo the elements that make “Crooked Kingdom” so compelling.

“The Bone Season” presents a unique blend of fantasy, dystopia, and paranormal genres. It centers on a clairvoyant in a world where her kind is hunted, offering a dark setting, high stakes, and a gripping narrative that “Crooked Kingdom” fans will appreciate.

This fantasy novel, set in Prague, explores the life of an art student who’s been raised by monsters. The book’s lush, atmospheric writing, and complex, intriguing characters make it a great follow-up to “Crooked Kingdom.”

While this is another Grishaverse novel, “Shadow and Bone” presents a different set of characters and setting than “Crooked Kingdom.” It provides a deeper understanding of the Grisha world and the Darkling, an iconic character who fans of Kaz Brekker might find intriguing.

“Vicious” explores the complicated relationship between two brilliant, driven individuals who become archenemies. With its morally gray characters, intricate plot, and dark themes, it resonates with the core elements of “Crooked Kingdom.”

As the first book in ‘The First Law’ trilogy, “The Blade Itself” features a cast of flawed characters, complex political maneuvers, and gritty world-building. These elements make it a fitting choice for those who enjoyed the darker tones and intricate plot of “Crooked Kingdom.”

“Throne of Glass” centers around a lethal assassin who must fight for her freedom in a brutal competition. Fans of “Crooked Kingdom” will appreciate the novel’s strong female protagonist, complex relationships, and the intricate, high-stakes plot.

“City of Bones” introduces readers to a world full of shadowhunters, demons, and other supernatural beings hidden in plain sight. If you enjoyed the blend of fantasy and urban elements in “Crooked Kingdom,” Clare’s Shadowhunter Chronicles could be your next stop.