Crooked Kingdom by Leigh Bardugo has been praised for its intricate plotting, rich character development, and engaging writing style. However, some readers found the pacing uneven and the numerous subplots occasionally overwhelming. Overall, it offers a satisfying conclusion to the duology, blending action, emotion, and clever twists.

Fans of intricate heists, morally complex characters, and richly built fantasy worlds will enjoy Crooked Kingdom by Leigh Bardugo. This book appeals to readers who appreciate the cleverness and camaraderie found in novels like Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson and Six of Crows, the first in this duology.

Crooked Kingdom by Leigh Bardugo follows Kaz Brekker and his crew of teenage criminals as they seek revenge and redemption in the city of Ketterdam. After being betrayed, they devise schemes to rescue their friend Inej, fight enemies including powerful Grisha-enhanced soldiers, and take down the corrupt merchant Van Eck to secure their freedom and fortunes. This book contains depictions of human trafficking, sexual abuse, physical abuse, substance abuse, and ableism.

Mysterious / Gritty / Suspenseful / Emotional / Challenging

- Crooked Kingdom features illustrations and a map created by Keith Thompson, which add an extra layer of depth and visual engagement to the world of Ketterdam.
- Leigh Bardugo's Crooked Kingdom was nominated for the 2016 Goodreads Choice Awards in the categories of "Best Young Adult Fantasy & Science Fiction" and "Best Book of the Year."
- The title Crooked Kingdom reflects the central theme of deception and moral ambiguity that characterizes the heist-planning protagonists and their gritty, complex world.

**Kaz Brekker**  
A cunning 17-year-old mastermind known as "Dirtyhands" in Ketterdam, who leads a crew of misfits with a fierce determination to protect them and achieve his vengeful goals, while concealing his traumatic past.

**Inej Ghafa**  
A skilled and empathetic spy, known as the "Wraith," who navigates the criminal underworld with grace and a commitment to her moral compass, striving to protect others from the fate she has endured.

**Jesper Fahey**  
A sharpshooting Grisha with a penchant for risk and gambling, who struggles with accepting his abilities and strives to mend his relationships with his family and crew.

**Wylan Van Eck**  
A resourceful and inventive chemist, whose journey from outcast to confident ally showcases his problem-solving skills and determination to reclaim his identity and family ties.

**Nina Zenik**  
A charismatic Grisha Heartrender whose struggle with addiction and evolving powers play a crucial role in her fight for justice and peace, as she balances humor with heartfelt dedication to her crew.

**Matthias Helvar**  
A formidable Fjerdan warrior wrestling with his past prejudice, whose deep love for Nina and growing loyalty to his comrades define his character's evolution and sacrifice for their shared ideals.

Leigh Bardugo

Novel

Six of Crows

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

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Overview

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Crooked Kingdom Summary and Study Guide

Background

Crooked Kingdom Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Forsaken”

Part 1, Chapters 1-4

Crooked Kingdom Part 1, Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “A Killing Wind”

Part 2, Chapters 5-10

Crooked Kingdom Part 2, Chapters 5-10 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Brick by Brick”

Part 3, Chapters 11-16

Crooked Kingdom Part 3, Chapters 11-16 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “The Unexpected Visitor”

Part 4, Chapters 17-23

Crooked Kingdom Part 4, Chapters 17-23 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “Kings & Queens”

Part 5, Chapters 24-32

Crooked Kingdom Part 5, Chapters 24-32 Summary & Analysis

Part 6: “Action & Echo”

Part 6, Chapters 33-45

Crooked Kingdom Part 6, Chapters 33-45 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Crooked Kingdom Character Analysis

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Crooked Kingdom Themes

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Crooked Kingdom Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Crooked Kingdom Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Crooked Kingdom Essay Topics

Crooked Kingdom: A Sequel to Six of Crows

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