Books Like...
'Six of Crows' by Leigh Bardugo is a gripping YA heist novel set in a fantasy world where a mastermind, Kaz Brekker, assembles a team of teenagers with special gifts and dark pasts to undertake an impossible mission in the dangerous city of Ketterdam. The story revolves around their quest to kidnap a scientist experimenting with enhancing special powers for military purposes, leading to a tale of revenge, loyalty, friendship, and intricate schemes against a backdrop of a richly imagined world filled with magic and complex characters.
The book is a heist thriller with a fantasy twist, featuring a group of misfits led by Kaz who navigate through a city controlled by gangs and a corrupt council. The narrative is driven by detailed schemes, plot twists, and the individual growth of the characters, as they face challenges, form relationships, and strive to achieve their goals in a world on the brink of change and chaos.
If you liked Six of Crows, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
In "Shadow and Bone" by Leigh Bardugo, readers are introduced to Alina Starkov and her best friend Mal, who are orphaned and drafted into the army. When Alina discovers she has a special gift marking her as a Grisha, she is sent to be groomed by the Darkling, the leader of an elite security branch. As Alina's powers awaken, she finds herself entangled in danger and intrigue, pining for her lost friend Mal. The story follows Alina's journey as she navigates a world filled with magic, betrayal, and romance, set in a fantasyland based on Russia, with a touch of forbidden love and self-discovery.
STANDING ON THE EDGE of a crowded road, I looked down onto the rolling fields and abandoned farms of the Tula Valley and got my first glimpse of the Shadow Fold. My regiment was two weeks’ march from ... - #2
In 'The Cruel Prince' by Holly Black, the story follows Jude and her sisters who are taken to Faerie after witnessing their parents' murder. Set in a world of magic and intrigue, Jude navigates the dangerous court as she strives for power and a place among the faerie lords and ladies. With twists and turns, the book keeps readers engaged with its lush descriptions and complex characters.
The book is a dark fantasy tale filled with revenge, drama, courtly intrigue, and magic. Readers are introduced to a world where danger and betrayal lurk around every corner, as Jude faces challenges and choices that will impact not only her family but the entire kingdom of Faerie.
“The tournament is still four nights away,” the creature says. Her name is Tatterfell, and she’s a servant in Madoc’s household, stuck here until she works off her debt to him. She’s cared for me sinc... - #3
Blue, a non-psychic girl from a family of psychics, gets entangled in a quest with a group of boys from a prestigious school to find a mystical spot tied to a Welsh king named Owen Glendower. The story is set in Henrietta, Virginia, and is narrated by four main characters as they explore the realms of magic and mystery surrounding ley lines and psychic energy. The book combines elements of fantasy and YA without relying on monsters or excessive violence, focusing instead on the characters' development and their pursuit of the mystical king.
It was April 24, St. Mark’s Eve. For most people, St. Mark’s Day came and went without note. It wasn’t a school holiday. No presents were exchanged. There were no costumes or festivals. There were no ... - #4
The Lies of Locke Lamora is an epic fantasy novel that follows the adventures of Locke Lamora and his band of thieves, the Gentlemen Bastards, in the city of Camorr. The plot twists and turns with surprises at every corner, leading to an edge-of-your-seat experience for readers. The book seamlessly combines elements of crime heist fiction with a flawlessly executed fantasy setting, creating a unique and engaging story that keeps readers hooked until the very end.
LOCKE LAMORA’S RULE of thumb was this: a good confidence game took three months to plan, three weeks to rehearse, and three seconds to win or lose the victim’s trust forever. This time around, he plan... - #5
In 'Ninth House' by Leigh Bardugo, the story revolves around Galaxy Alex Stern, a survivor dealing with a traumatic past who is recruited to oversee the mystical activities of the secret societies at Yale. As part of House Leathe, the ninth house, Alex becomes entangled in a web of dark secrets, disappearances, and murder on campus. The book delves into themes of trauma, magic, violence, and the power dynamics within the elite circles of Yale, creating a world where the supernatural intertwines with the everyday struggles of its characters. The writing style is described as dark, compelling, and filled with vivid descriptions that transport readers to the atmospheric setting of Yale University.
By the time Alex managed to get the blood out of her good wool coat, it was too warm to wear it. Spring had come on grudgingly; pale blue mornings failed to deepen, turning instead to moist, sullen af... - #6
'A Darker Shade of Magic' by V.E. Schwab follows Kell, a magician who can travel between four parallel worlds - White London, Red London, Grey London, and Black London. The story revolves around Kell's journey to return a forbidden talisman, installed with dangerous magic, to Black London. Along the way, he is aided by Delilah Bard, a thief from Grey London, as they navigate through different Londons with varying levels of magic and power struggles. The plot is fast-paced, filled with action, adventure, and plot twists, making it an engaging read for fans of urban fantasy and epic fantasy genres.
The first thing he did whenever he stepped out of one London and into another was take off the coat and turn it inside out once or twice (or even three times) until he found the side he needed. Not al... - #7
In "Throne of Glass" by Sarah J. Maas, readers are introduced to Celaena Sardothian, a skilled assassin who is given the opportunity to compete in a tournament to become the King's Champion and gain her freedom. The book follows Celaena's journey as she navigates the challenges of the competition, forms unexpected friendships, and uncovers mysterious murders that threaten her life. The writing style is described as vivid, well-written, and engaging, with a mix of action-packed scenes, intriguing characters, and a compelling murder mystery that keeps readers craving for more.
After a year of slavery in the Salt Mines of Endovier, Celaena Sardothien was accustomed to being escorted everywhere in shackles and at sword-point. Most of the thousands of slaves in Endovier receiv... - #8
An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir is a YA fantasy novel that follows the intertwined stories of Laia and Elias in a society divided between the Martials and Scholars. Laia, a spy for the resistance inside the Martial Empire's military academy, is determined to save her brother from prison, while Elias, the academy's top soldier, seeks freedom from his oppressive mother and their empire. The alternating perspectives of Laia and Elias provide insight into their struggles, moral dilemmas, and growing connection, set against a backdrop of brutal challenges, political intrigue, and a society filled with complex characters.
He folds his scarecrow body through the window, bare feet silent on the rushes. A hot desert wind blows in after him, rustling the limp curtains. His sketchbook falls to the floor, and he nudges it un... - #9
Leigh Bardugo's 'King of Scars' follows the story of King Nikolai of Ravka, who struggles with the aftermath of his exposure to the Darkling while dealing with the need to secure his position by finding a wife. The book intertwines the adventures of Nikolai, Zoya, and Nina, each facing their own challenges and missions within the Grishaverse. The writing style is fast-paced, with intertwining storylines and complex character dynamics that keep readers engaged and eager to see how the multiple plots will converge in the finale.
The plot of 'King of Scars' delves into the complexities of power, loyalty, and sacrifice as Nikolai, Zoya, and Nina navigate political intrigue, personal demons, and the ever-present threats to Ravka and its people. The book combines elements of fantasy, romance, and adventure, exploring themes of redemption, friendship, and the consequences of wielding dark magic. Bardugo's narrative weaves together multiple perspectives and storylines, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected events that culminate in a suspenseful and emotionally charged climax.
DIMA HEARD THE BARN DOORS slam before anyone else did. Inside the little farmhouse, the kitchen bubbled like a pot on the stove, its windows shut tight against the storm, the air in the room warm and ... - #10
'The Final Empire' in the 'Mistborn' series by Brandon Sanderson follows the story of Vin, a young thief with extraordinary abilities, as she becomes involved in a plot to overthrow the immortal emperor. Set in a world plagued by slavery, crime, and political corruption, the story unfolds with intricate magical systems and complex characters facing moral dilemmas and making compromises. The rebellion to dethrone the seemingly unkillable Lord Ruler and free the oppressed Skaa forms the central conflict, providing a mix of action, intrigue, and character development.
Vin watched the downy flakes drift through the air. Leisurely. Careless. Free. The puffs of soot fell like black snowflakes, descending upon the dark city of Luthadel. They drifted in corners, blowing...