I'd best describe this book as a great starting point for fantasy. It was a super quick read since the writing was very simple, which wasn't a bad thing. I can tell this is one of Leigh Bardugo's first books based on the story quality. So if this is your first Bardugo book, keep exploring her books because she is one of my favorite authors. I actually read Six of Crows and Crooked Kingdom two years ago before reading this series, and I would suggest starting with Shadow and Bone before reading Six of Crows. I think you'll understand the world more if you read in that order. I plan on rereading Six of Crows soon.

The characters are sorta likable but I don't love them. The world building is great though! I love the Russian influence. And of course the magic system is very fun to explore.