If Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo stole your heart with its gritty heist, sharp-witted characters, and moody magic, you’re not alone. But what happens after you turn the last page?
In this post, we dive into a nuanced review of the book—and then help you fill that Kaz Brekker-shaped void with 5 amazing books like Six of Crows that bring similar vibes, character dynamics, and emotional punch.
Book Review: Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
Six of Crows brings together a band of misfits—con artists, sharpshooters, and runaway Grisha—for an impossible heist.
Set in the bustling, gritty streets of Ketterdam, Bardugo constructs a fantasy world pulsing with corruption, mystery, and magic. At its core, this is a story about loyalty, survival, and the unexpected bonds forged in desperate times.
Characters with Bite (and Baggage)
The heart of Six of Crows lies in its characters. Kaz Brekker, the emotionally guarded antihero, gets the lion’s share of attention, but the entire cast—especially Inej, Nina, and Jesper—add texture and complexity.
For a YA fantasy, these teens handle grief, betrayal, and love with striking self-awareness that can occasionally feel more adult than adolescent.
Stakes are high, but the outcomes can feel preordained—dampening the thrill that should come with a truly impossible heist.
The romance subplots, while never overpowering, follow familiar YA beats: slow burns, will-they-won’t-they moments, and emotionally guarded characters finally cracking.
Should You Read It?
For YA fans, Six of Crows is a high-caliber entry in the genre—dripping with atmosphere and character-driven storytelling.
But for adult fantasy readers, its predictability and age-inconsistent maturity may leave something to be desired. Think of it as the Adam Levine of fantasy: charmingly edgy but carefully curated.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.1/5)
Books Like Six of Crows
If you’re looking for more found-family feels, dangerous missions, or character-driven fantasy, here are five books that deliver.
1. Dangerous Remedy by Kat Dunn
Set during the French Revolution, a rebellious group breaks prisoners out of jail—until a magical girl with reality-shifting powers complicates their loyalties and ignites a political firestorm.
Just like Six of Crows, this book is built on morally complex characters, strong LGBTQ+ rep, and a thrilling, revolution-tinged plot.
The heist elements and unpredictable alliances feel right at home for fans of Kaz and crew.
Queer romance and morally grey politics with an 18th-century twist.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6/5)
2. Girl, Serpent, Thorn by Melissa Bashardoust
Fans of Inej will be drawn to Soraya’s internal struggle with identity and self-worth.
Soraya, cursed to kill with a single touch, uncovers family secrets and embraces the dangerous magic within herself in a Persian-inspired fairytale.
Like Six of Crows, it’s a dark fairytale filled with moral ambiguity and female-led strength.
The book has feminist themes and complex morally gray characters in a standalone package.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
3. Starfish by Akemi Dawn Bowman
Kiko, a biracial teen and aspiring artist, must redefine her future after art school rejection and years of emotional abuse from her mother.
While not fantasy, it resonates with Six of Crows readers through its exploration of trauma, self-discovery, and a protagonist finding strength through art and resilience.
Emotionally raw with rich, authentic voice and themes of identity and healing.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (3.8/5)
4. Break the Fall by Jennifer Iacopelli
A competitive gymnast must reckon with sexual assault within her sport while preparing for the Olympics.
Perfect for fans who appreciated Six of Crows’ emotional undertones and complex character arcs.
This book balances intensity and empowerment with realism.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (3.7/5)
5. Camp by L.C. Rosen
If you appreciated the group dynamics and layered identities in Six of Crows, Camp offers the same with a queer contemporary twist—humorous, heartfelt, and unapologetically bold.
At a queer summer camp, Randy reinvents himself to win over his crush, only to confront hard truths about identity and self-acceptance.
The book tackles internalized homophobia, toxic stereotypes, and self-expression with humor and heart.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.57/5)
Final Thoughts: What Will You Read Next?
Whether you loved Six of Crows for its thrilling heist or the bonds between broken characters, these books offer something fresh yet familiar. Each brings its own unique magic, emotional depth, and gripping storytelling.
Have a favorite like Six of Crows we didn’t mention? Drop it in the comments!
And if you haven’t picked up Bardugo’s duology yet—what are you waiting for?
Want more book suggestions? We have recommendations on The Alchemist, The Giver, Dune and more.