Leigh Bardugo

*The Grishaverse will be coming to Netflix soon with Shadow and Bone, an original series!* Enter the Grishaverse with book two of the Shadow and Bone Trilogy by number one New York Times-bestselling author Leigh Bardugo. Perfect for fans of Laini Taylor and Sarah J. Maas. Now with a stunning new cover and exclusive bonus material: Nikolai Lantsov character art and a Q&A with Leigh Bardugo. Soldier. Summoner. Saint. Alina Starkov's power has grown, but not without a price. She is the Sun Summoner - hunted across the True Sea, haunted by the lives she took on the Shadow Fold. But she and Mal can't outrun their enemies for long. The Darkling is more determined than ever to claim Alina's magic and use it to take the Ravkan throne. With nowhere else to turn, Alina enlists the help of an infamous privateer and sets out to lead the Grisha army. But as the truth of Alina's destiny unfolds, she slips deeper into the Darkling's deadly game of forbidden magic, and further away from her humanity. To save her country, Alina will have to choose between her power and the love she thought would always be her shelter. No victory can come without sacrifice - and only she can face the oncoming storm. Read all the books in the Grishaverse! The Shadow and Bone Trilogy (previously published as The Grisha Trilogy) Shadow and Bone Siege and Storm Ruin and Rising The Six of Crows Duology Six of Crows Crooked Kingdom The Language of Thorns: Midnight Tales and Dangerous Magic

Book 2

Siege and Storm

kari <33

It felt wrong, like everything was happening too quickly, as if we were rushing toward something we didn’t understand.

The Darkling just stared out into the waves. I considered shoving him over the railing. Sure, he was hundreds of years old, but could he swim?

I turned onto my side, feeling the gentle roll of the ship beneath me. Was this what it was like to be rocked to sleep in a mother’s arms? I couldn’t remember. 

Why can’t Alina tell Mal the truth? Maybe if she did, Mal would understand why she had to do it? 

Jun Sani

"I was just tired," I said lightly. You used a lot more of your power when we escaped es princt. And what about Sturmh Th also Sturmhond, uge of the Irue Sea." from the nichevo'ya, and you never faltered. Is it the fetter?"

Omggggg. Tolya and Tamar are Heartrenders - Grishas! Sooooo good!!! 

They were Grisha. Heartrenders. "Do you like that, little man?" Tolya asked as he stalked towards Ivan. 

Emma N Harrell

We do our best. We try. And usually, it makes no difference at all. 

“I like weeds," she said, pushing herself off from the railing and gathering her scattered lengths of rope. “They're survivors.”

“The dreams were the only place it was safe to use her power now, and she longed for them.”

Chloe Heisserer

I wept with rage that I would have to live at all.

I love Nikolai he is the best , i juat wish she can get over Mal

Eslie

“I want to kiss you,” Nikolai said. “But I won’t. Not until you’re thinking of me instead of trying to forget him.”

Omw Nikolai is already one of my favorites;)

“Nikolai,” he corrected. “But I’ve also been known to answer to ‘sweetheart’ or ‘handsome.’”

Hunted across the True Sea and haunted by the lives she took on the Fold, Alina must try to make a life with Mal in an unfamiliar land, all while keeping her identity as the Sun Summoner a secret. This edition of the second novel of the Grisha TrilogyNthe follow-up to the "New York Times" bestseller "Shadow and Bone"Nincludes bonus content.

vinny<3

"I have loved you all my life, Mal," I whispered through my tears. "There is no end to our story."

"You know the problem with heroes and saints, Nikolai?" ... "They always end up dead."

came here for Ravka. For the firebird. To lead the Second Army." He tapped the sun over his heart. "I came here for you. 

Finally, he held out his ink-stained hands and said, almost pleadingly. "I make things. I don't destroy them."

"Watch yourself, Nikolai," Mal said softly. "Princes bleed just like other men."

Nikolai plucked an invisible piece of dust from his sleeve. "Yes," he said. "They just do it in better clothes."

I thought. But I knew some part of him would always grieve for the life he'd been meant to have, the life he would have had without me.

I shrugged. "Mal's always been like that ... He just blooms wherever he's planted."

"I'm taking you to meet my client, and that's really all I can tell you."

"Are you so sure it's a he? Maybe I'm delivering you to the Fjerdan Queen."

"No. But it's always wise to keep an open mind."

Jess

Anna Stewart

"Soldier. Summoner. Saint. Alina Starkov's power has grown, but not without a price. She is the Sun Summoner--hunted across the True Sea, haunted by the lives she took on the Shadow Fold. But she and Mal can't outrun their enemies for long. The Darkling is more determined than ever to claim Alina's magic and use it to take the Ravkan throne. With nowhere else to turn, Alina enlists the help of an infamous privateer and sets out to lead the Grisha army. But as the truth of Alina's destiny unfolds, she slips deeper into the Darkling's deadly game of forbidden magic, and further away from her humanity. To save her country, Alina will have to choose between her power and the love she thought would always be her shelter. No victory can come without sacrifice--and only she can face the oncoming storm"--

Much more exciting than the first one but otherwise more of the same. Fine with me.

Liam Richardson

Siege And Storm

Siege and Storm is the second installment in Leigh Bardugo’s Grisha Trilogy, following the events of Shadow and Bone. This sequel raises the stakes with more action, deeper character development, and a stronger exploration of power, leadership, and sacrifice. Set in the richly imagined world of Ravka, the novel continues Alina Starkov’s journey as she faces new threats—both external and within herself.

After fleeing the Darkling and escaping the Shadow Fold, Alina and her childhood friend Mal seek safety across the sea. But peace doesn’t last long. The Darkling, now more powerful than ever thanks to his horrifying new abilities, soon catches up with them. Alina is forced to return to Ravka, where she must gather new allies and embrace her role as the Sun Summoner to fight against the growing darkness.

At the center of the conflict is Alina’s growing power and the increasing temptation it brings. As she searches for the second of Morozova’s amplifiers—magical objects that increase a Grisha’s strength—Alina begins to change, and the lines between savior and conqueror blur.

Alina becomes more complex in Siege and Storm. Her internal struggle with power and identity adds depth to her character, making her journey feel more personal and relatable. Mal’s role becomes more conflicted, as his loyalty is tested by Alina’s transformation and the world pulling her away from him.

One of the biggest highlights is the introduction of a new character: Sturmhond, a charismatic privateer (and later revealed as more than he seems), who brings wit, energy, and intrigue to the story. He’s a fan favorite for good reason, offering comic relief and strategic brilliance.

The Darkling remains a powerful and haunting figure, appearing less frequently but still casting a long shadow over the plot.

Once again, Bardugo’s world-building shines. From stormy seas to royal palaces and ancient ruins, Ravka continues to feel vivid and immersive. The Grisha universe expands in Siege and Storm, with new factions, lore, and political dynamics coming into play. Bardugo carefully balances magic and realism, keeping the stakes high and believable.

The emotional tension in Siege and Storm is stronger than in the first book. Alina’s moral dilemmas, her growing isolation, and the weight of leadership are all thoughtfully portrayed. The action sequences are well-written, and the pacing keeps the reader hooked. Sturmhond is a standout addition, breathing fresh life into the series.

One potential downside is the romantic subplot between Alina and Mal, which at times feels strained and repetitive. However, this is arguably part of the story’s emotional realism, as both characters grapple with who they are becoming.

Siege and Storm is a solid and exciting sequel that builds on the promise of Shadow and Bone. With higher stakes, new characters, and deeper emotional complexity, it continues to draw readers into the darkness and light of Ravka’s magical world. It’s a thoughtful exploration of power, identity, and the cost of heroism.

This book is perfect for teens and young adults who enjoyed Shadow and Bone and want more political intrigue, character development, and fantasy world-building. It also appeals to readers who like morally grey characters and slow-burn tension. Fans of series like Red Queen, Throne of Glass, or The Cruel Prince will likely enjoy Siege and Storm.

Keisi

Siege and Storm is the second installment in Leigh Bardugo’s Grisha Trilogy, following the events of Shadow and Bone. This sequel raises the stakes with more action, deeper character development, and a stronger exploration of power, leadership, and sacrifice. Set in the richly imagined world of Ravka, the novel continues Alina Starkov’s journey as she faces new threats—both external and within herself.

After fleeing the Darkling and escaping the Shadow Fold, Alina and her childhood friend Mal seek safety across the sea. But peace doesn’t last long. The Darkling, now more powerful than ever thanks to his horrifying new abilities, soon catches up with them. Alina is forced to return to Ravka, where she must gather new allies and embrace her role as the Sun Summoner to fight against the growing darkness.

At the center of the conflict is Alina’s growing power and the increasing temptation it brings. As she searches for the second of Morozova’s amplifiers—magical objects that increase a Grisha’s strength—Alina begins to change, and the lines between savior and conqueror blur.

Alina becomes more complex in Siege and Storm. Her internal struggle with power and identity adds depth to her character, making her journey feel more personal and relatable. Mal’s role becomes more conflicted, as his loyalty is tested by Alina’s transformation and the world pulling her away from him.

One of the biggest highlights is the introduction of a new character: Sturmhond, a charismatic privateer (and later revealed as more than he seems), who brings wit, energy, and intrigue to the story. He’s a fan favorite for good reason, offering comic relief and strategic brilliance.

The Darkling remains a powerful and haunting figure, appearing less frequently but still casting a long shadow over the plot.

Once again, Bardugo’s world-building shines. From stormy seas to royal palaces and ancient ruins, Ravka continues to feel vivid and immersive. The Grisha universe expands in Siege and Storm, with new factions, lore, and political dynamics coming into play. Bardugo carefully balances magic and realism, keeping the stakes high and believable.

The emotional tension in Siege and Storm is stronger than in the first book. Alina’s moral dilemmas, her growing isolation, and the weight of leadership are all thoughtfully portrayed. The action sequences are well-written, and the pacing keeps the reader hooked. Sturmhond is a standout addition, breathing fresh life into the series.

One potential downside is the romantic subplot between Alina and Mal, which at times feels strained and repetitive. However, this is arguably part of the story’s emotional realism, as both characters grapple with who they are becoming.

Siege and Storm is a solid and exciting sequel that builds on the promise of Shadow and Bone. With higher stakes, new characters, and deeper emotional complexity, it continues to draw readers into the darkness and light of Ravka’s magical world. It’s a thoughtful exploration of power, identity, and the cost of heroism.

This book is perfect for teens and young adults who enjoyed Shadow and Bone and want more political intrigue, character development, and fantasy world-building. It also appeals to readers who like morally grey characters and slow-burn tension. Fans of series like Red Queen, Throne of Glass, or The Cruel Prince will likely enjoy Siege and Storm.

hmmmmmmmmm.... it was okay, I guess. I did not hate it at all, but I did not love it. 

-I think the coolest bit was when they met Sturmhond until he finally showed himself as the Second Prince.

-Like I said in my Shadow and Bone Review, I knew that the princes would be more relevant in the second book, even though they were barely mentioned. 

-I still do not care much for the romance part of it either. It's obvious they have intense feelings for each other but whether they end up together or not...... it's whatever to me. I feel like the romance bit is a little all over the place and hope it's sharpened up in the last book.

-I felt like the twists were really obvious and not surprising.

-That pacing was also a little weird in some parts imo. Some things that should have been better explained were brushed off and other parts dragged for too long.

-Nikolai became the most interesting character for me, following the Darkling. I would not mind having a side story just knowing  in detail his previous adventures. 

Marta

hmmmmmmmmm.... it was okay, I guess. I did not hate it at all, but I did not love it. 

Here are some scattered thoughts:

-I think the coolest bit was when they met Sturmhond until he finally showed himself as the Second Prince.

-Like I said in my Shadow and Bone Review, I knew that the princes would be more relevant in the second book, even though they were barely mentioned. 

-I still do not care much for the romance part of it either. It's obvious they have intense feelings for each other but whether they end up together or not...... it's whatever to me. I feel like the romance bit is a little all over the place and hope it's sharpened up in the last book.

-I felt like the twists were really obvious and not surprising.

-That pacing was also a little weird in some parts imo. Some things that should have been better explained were brushed off and other parts dragged for too long.

-Nikolai became the most interesting character for me, following the Darkling. I would not mind having a side story just knowing  in detail his previous adventures. 

-Alina is a really pretty name.

-Well, onto the next one.

Myriam Boulanger Lapointe

Jennifer Gosnell

** spoiler alert **
           Really liked this second installment! I think it suffered from a lot of the normal things of a trilogy, mainly being a device to set us up for the final book. But I think it was really well done, contributed considerably to the world-building, and I lovedddd meeting Nicholai. That whole privateer storyline was excellent and the highlight of the book for me. Mal on the other hand… whiney. SO whiney. 

Anyways, I’m psyched to read the finale!

(3.5) The last book was better and even though this book delved deeper into the relationships, I felt as if the whole book was just about the same thing. AND THE ACTION WAS ONLY AT THE END AND BEGINNING. THE WHOLE MIDDLE, 500 PAGES, WAS JUST DISCUSSING WAYS TO STOP THE DARKLING AND MAL AND ALINA GETTING INTO FIGHTS.

Anna 

finished book two of the grishaverse trilogy in 4 days and the review will be most likely the same as it was for the first one.
i read it quickly, the pacing was nice and it was easy to read. it even made me cry which i appreciate because i like it when an author is able to make readers cry. yes i'm weird.
alina acts even worse than in book one and mal gets on my nerves every time he opens his mouth. they are both selfish and thought they can just run away and have their silly little house in the middle of nowhere and start their silly little family or something. when you are the most powerful grisha to ever live you sadly cannot do these things, alina :D. well nikolai showed up and told her exactly that so thanks god i love that man. 
haha i don't really know what else to say, it was dumb but in a nice and nostalgic way. perfect for summer vacation if you don't want to read anything too complicated.

ploral

Linta

Nikolai and the darkling would forever have my heart

kelsey

*update 8/7/21

why was i hating on mal at least he’s not the darkling

jax simpson

clau☁️

arwen

“my power is yours,” i repeated. his arms tightened around me. “and yours is mine,” i whispered against his lips.

Helena

3.5 ✨
loved nikolai
hated everyone else

Hanna Rybchynska

Alina and Mal's adventure continues in this second book when they try to find a second power amplifier. This time majority of the adventure is in the water. Yes, this is a predictable and simple story, but I liked it so much. Sometimes simpler is better.

Amira 

I love Nikolai so much. I need to read him and Zoyas book😭🤞🏾

after in this book was a freaking masterpiece to me

karo

Christine

things i took away from this book:
david is the only valid male



that's all

Meg Ma. Guerrero 

more of a 3.5 than a solid 4 lol

somehow enjoyed this more than s&b simply because there's less of the darkling ajdlkfajlwe but also disliked the pacing. it took me a while to finish this because there was barely anything happening despite already being halfway through the book and it was literally only in the last chapter (or last 2 chapters) where it started moving along. 

happy to have finally been introduced to nikolai, though. he seems like a lot of fun and i'll probs read the books centered around him, too.

Sophie P.

this killed my motivation to finish the series

martina

gülefşan 

It started really well and for a moment i thought it might be better than the first book but it wasn't. The only thing that i love in this book was nikolai

Julie Rubens

Not my favorite book, but I definitely loved the last 50 pages! I really like the world and storyline, but I just don't like the characters that much. Also, I don't see why no one likes Mal and I personally find Alina really annoying haha. I am curious to see how the final book will wrap up the story and I'm definitely excited to see the show on Netflix!

Siege and Storm Book 2

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