Reviewed by thepunktheory on
This was so good!
Although I was sad to leave Ketterdam and my favorite Murder Babies behind, I was also excited to see what King Nikolai is up to these days.
Unfortunately, nothing in Ravka is ever smooth sailing. Charming Nikolai is plagued by a monster and his conflict is expertly depicted in this book. I like how Leigh Bardugo allows her characters to evolve and how she gives them depth. It's not only Nikolai in this novel but also Zoya about whom we learn so much more.
I've always enjoyed Nikolai's swagger and humor, so I'm happy we get a little more of that - even though he is facing dark times.
Zoya is, as usual, as charming as an ice block and that's precisely what I love about her. She's a tough fighter but she doesn't care what others think about her. She uncompromisingly herself. She's always 100% honest and to the point - honestly, I think I'd be best friends with her.
But let's not forget the second storyline! Nina Zenik is in Fjerda doing some undercover work. She's still battling with grief, caught between holding onto her lost love and letting go of the pain. Not even to mention that she also has to deal with how Parem altered her very own powers. Bardugo is really brilliant with writing those inner tensions and struggles Nina has.
The story takes some very interesting turns, some that I hadn't seen coming. I had expected something else but what we got was certainly thrilling!
The book ended with a cliffhanger (sort of) so I hope we get the next installment very soon. I need to know if my new favorite ship is really sinking before it even set sails!
Reading updates
- Started reading
- 15 August, 2019: Finished reading
- 15 August, 2019: Reviewed