Crooked Kingdom

Hook & thesis

In Crooked Kingdom, Leigh Bardugo deftly weaves a tale of loyalty, betrayal, and the intoxicating allure of power, revealing the dark underbelly of ambition amidst a vibrant fantasy landscape. Verdict: This book masterfully explores the complexity of human desire, ultimately laying bare the destructive potential of love entwined with ambition.

The contextual pivot

Positioned within the fantasy-romance genre, Crooked Kingdom serves as a sequel to Six of Crows, continuing the narrative of outlaws and antiheroes navigating a world rife with political intrigue and emotional turmoil. Bardugo’s work stands alongside authors like Sarah J. Maas and V.E. Schwab, who similarly blend romance into expansive fantasy realms, yet Bardugo’s approach is distinctive—her characters grapple with morally ambiguous choices that drive the plot forward. The invisible audience here is likely comprised of young adult readers and adults seeking nuanced relationships within fantastical settings, with the book successfully bridging niche elements for broader appeal through its intricate character dynamics and plot intricacies.

Deep-dive critique

Bardugo employs a dual point of view structure that not only enhances the pacing of the narrative but also deepens the reader’s connection to the characters’ internal conflicts. The alternating perspectives of Kaz Brekker and Inej Ghafa allow for a rich exploration of their desires and fears, introducing a complexity that elevates the plot beyond typical genre conventions. For instance, Kaz’s relentless pursuit of vengeance is juxtaposed with Inej’s yearning for a life unburdened by violence, showcasing how their ambitions intertwine yet diverge. The prose is sharp, filled with vivid imagery that captures the gritty essence of Ketterdam, and the dialogue crackles with tension, revealing character motivations and histories without falling into exposition.

However, while the thematic exploration of loyalty and betrayal is commendable, some may argue that certain character arcs, particularly that of Jesper Fahey, lack the same depth of resolution. The pacing, especially in the latter half, occasionally falters, as the stakes escalate but the emotional resonance sometimes dims, leading to a climax that feels slightly less earned. The emotional intensity, emphasized through the characters’ struggles, serves as a double-edged sword; it enriches the reading experience but also risks overshadowing plot coherence in critical moments.

Discussion launchpad

Bardugo’s intricate tapestry of relationships and moral dilemmas invites a multitude of interpretations and discussions. The duality of ambition and love, along with the consequences they yield, raises questions about the nature of desire in a morally complex world.

Questions for the room:

How do the themes of loyalty and betrayal resonate with contemporary societal issues?
In what ways does Kaz’s ambition reflect or challenge traditional notions of heroism?
Do you find the emotional arcs of all characters satisfying, or are there moments where you felt underwhelmed?
Considering the dual POV, which character’s journey resonated more with you and why?
What does the ending suggest about the future of the characters and their moral choices?

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