So you enjoyed the Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo book, and that is why you are looking for more books similar to Six of Crows. It’s not just about the heist; it’s about the people behind it and the choices they make.
Readers love this book, which is why we are going to know about books like Six of Crows with similar vibes and the same mix of action, strategy, strong characters, a smart plot, and a layered crew. This book stands out from others because of the way it handles trust, survival, and loyalty. This list brings together books that share those same core elements.
Some are about clever plans. Other novels focus on unlikely friendships, dangerous missions, or broken worlds. A few are set in fantasy lands, while others lean more into crime, politics, or power types, you know.
You don’t have to read these in order. Each one is included because it speaks to the spirit of Six of Crows — not by copying it, but by exploring similar themes in a new way.
Whether you’re here for the group dynamic, the tension, or the risk, this guide is meant to help you find your next good read. Let’s take a closer look at the books that might just give you that same feeling again.
What Makes a Book Like Six of Crows?
If you haven’t read Six of Crows yet, some of these picks may land differently—but don’t worry, each book stands on its own.
- A fast-paced, layered plot often involving schemes or missions
- High-stakes action that doesn’t overshadow emotional depth
- Characters that change (or don’t) in ways that matter
- Worldbuilding that feels lived-in but not overwhelming
- A tight-knit group of outcasts or morally conflicted characters
Not all books are exactly fantasy or the same, but they share the DNA of Six of Crows in a meaningful way.
Finished Six of Crows? Here Are 9 Similar Books You’ll Love Next
1. Vicious by V.E. Schwab
- Genre: Fantasy, Supernatural, Antihero
- Publication Date: September 24, 2013
- Pages: 364
- Goodreads Rating: 4.19/5 (over 340,000 ratings)
I think you already know about this book because it is widely popular after Six of Crows. Vicious is a story about two former college friends, Victor and Eli, who discover that under the right conditions, a person can develop special abilities.
What starts as a research project turns into a personal war between them. The book moves between past and present, showing how their choices lead to a dangerous conflict.
You know what makes this book stand out? Vicious Apart is about how it explores power, revenge, and the thin line between hero and villain.
Victor and Eli both believe they are doing the right thing, like every villain thinks, but the book doesn’t tell you who to side with.
Instead, it lets you see their actions and decide for yourself if they are wrong or right. There are no clear heroes, just people trying to survive with the power they chose to create.
This book feels similar vibes to Six of Crows because of its focus on morally gray characters, smart planning, and high interest.
Like Kaz Brekker, Victor is a sharp character, careful, and focused on his goal. Both stories also build strong pulling tension without needing constant action. It is basically about what people are willing to do and why. If you haven’t read this book yet, I must say, try this out.
What Makes It Similar:
Focuses on revenge, moral ambiguity, and a sharp mind playing the long game. Victor and Kaz both operate outside rules, shaped by past betrayal.
Favorite line from the book- “Plenty of humans were monstrous, and plenty of monsters knew how to play at being human.” — V.E. Schwab, Vicious
2. An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir
- Genre: YA Fantasy, Dystopian
- Publication Date: April 28, 2015
- Pages: 446
- Goodreads Rating: 4.24/5 (over 370,000 ratings)
This novel is set in a ruthless empire inspired by ancient Rome, where power is maintained by fear and force. It focuses on two main characters: Laia, a Scholar girl who is undercover to rescue her brother, and Elias, a top-ranking student at the empire’s military academy who secretly wants to escape.
Both are stuck in worlds they didn’t choose. I think you will love to stick with the story; you won’t get bored. What’s great about this book is that it shows us the price of survival in a world where violence is everyday life.
Each decision they make has great significance, and there’s no easy way out. This book slowly builds tension with fear and trust that get intense under pressure. This book is a good match for fans of Six of Crows and readers who enjoy them.
Although the book scenes are not exactly the same, both books have themes of resistance, loyalty, and how far individuals will go to protect others. Like Kaz and Inej, Laia and Elias are also imperfect heroes.
They are survivors, shaped by pain and driven by purpose. You’ll see plans fall apart and characters struggle to stay true to themselves.
What Makes It Similar:
Set in a brutal world where survival means sacrifice and strategy. The dual narrative and emotional weight feel close to Six of Crows’ layered tone.
Favorite line from the book- “You are an ember in the ashes, Elias Veturius. You will spark and burn, ravage and destroy. You cannot change it. You cannot stop it.” — Sabaa Tahir, An Ember in the Ashes.
3. The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch
- Genre: Adult Fantasy, Heist
- Publication Date: June 27, 2006
- Pages: 499
- Goodreads Rating: 4.31/5 (over 360,000 ratings)
The third-best book on the list with over 3L plus ratings. The Lies of Locke Lamora book about a small gang of thieves known as the Gentleman Bastards, led by Locke Lamora, a clever con artist who targets the rich in the city of Camorr.
The main storyline moves between the gang’s current schemes and Locke’s past, showing how he learned to outsmart everyone around him.
It’s not just about stealing money; it’s about beating the system, no matter the cost. If you watched the Money Heist series, you know what I am talking about.
What makes this book stand out is how much detail it gives to both the plan and the people behind it. Each heist feels earned, and every trick has a purpose. The world of Camorr is full of risky crime lords, corrupt nobles, and rules that can change without warning.
In my opinion, this book is a perfect match for fans of Six of Crows. Both stories center on a tight crew, difficult plans, and main characters who use brains over brute strength.
Like Kaz, Locke isn’t the strongest in the room, but he’s usually the smartest, like the professor. The friendship and trust between crew members also feel like the real deal, built over time and tested often. Should you try this? Of course, buddy, if you have not read it yet, try this; you will love it.
What Makes It Similar:
Built around a clever, flawed thief and his loyal crew. Both stories rely on tight plans, shifting stakes, and bonds formed in the underworld.
Favorite line from the book- “I’ve got kids who can steal, I’ve got kids who can kill, but what I need is a liar.” — Scott Lynch, The Lies of Locke Lamora.
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4 We Hunt the Flame by Hafsah Faizal
- Genre: YA Fantasy
- Publication Date: May 14, 2019
- Pages: 480
- Goodreads Rating: 3.87/5 (over 90,000 ratings)
We Hunt the Flame is set in a kingdom where magic has vanished and darkness rules. It has two main characters: Zafira, a skilled hunter who hides her identity to support her people, and Nasir, the prince known as the “Prince of Death,” who follows orders without any question.
Both are sent on the same mission—to recover a lost artifact that could bring magic back. The story puts together survival, loyalty, and identity. Zafira struggles with being both needed and hunted.
Nasir carries the weight of being a weapon for his father’s rule. As their paths cross, the mission grows harder—not just because of the dangers around them, but because of what they begin to learn about themselves and each other.
This book fits well for Six of Crows readers. It features a deadly journey, characters with hidden pain, and slow trust built under pressure.
Like Kaz and Inej, Zafira and Nasir carry guilt and purpose. They aren’t just trying to win—they’re trying to live with the choices they’ve made.
What Makes It Similar:
Centers on two broken leads bound by duty and inner conflict. Like Six of Crows, it’s a mission story with slow trust and layered character arcs.
Favorite line from the book- “People lived because she killed. People died because he lived.” — Hafsah Faizal, We Hunt the Flame.
5. Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo
- Genre: YA Fantasy
- Publication Date: (Book 1) June 5, 2012
- Pages: (Book 1) 358
- Goodreads Rating: 3.92/5 (over 1053,954 ratings for Book 1)
From the same author of Six of Crows, Leigh Bardugo The Shadow and Bone trilogy introduces the Grishaverse, the same world where Six of Crows takes place, but earlier in the timeline; you can call it a prequel type.
This trilogy lays the groundwork for the world of Six of Crows. It explains the history of the Grisha, how power is viewed, and why places like Ketterdam matter so much later on.
The story revolves around Alina Starkov, a young mapmaker who finds out she has a rare power that could shift the balance in a country divided by war and darkness. After she learns how to control power, she gets into politics, promises, and dangers of the Grisha elite.
While the story is more focused on Alina’s personal journey than on a crew dynamic, it still explores trust, survival, and the cost of leadership—themes that are reflected in Bardugo’s later books.
This book deserves to be placed with books like Six of Crows. For Six of Crows fans, this trilogy offers an important background. Moreover, if you like to watch series or movies, you can watch its series Shadow and Bone, which covers Book 1 in the Grisha Trilogy.
You’ll better understand the political tensions, magical systems, and some characters that reappear. It also gives context to the fear and control around Grisha’s powers.
What Makes It Similar:
Shares the same universe, with overlapping themes of power, identity, and survival. It builds the foundation that gives Six of Crows its depth.
Favorite line from the book- “I am not ruined. I am ruination.” — Leigh Bardugo, Shadow and Bone
6. The Bone Season by Samantha Shannon
- Genre: Fantasy, Dystopian
- Publication Date: August 20, 2013
- Pages: 466
- Goodreads Rating: 3.84/5 (over 125,000 ratings)
I already talked about this book in my Dark Fantasy Romance Books. The Bone Season takes place in a future London controlled by a powerful, dystopian force.
In this world, clairvoyants—people with abilities to connect with the spirit world—are hunted and imprisoned. Paige Mahoney is one of them. She works in the criminal underworld, using her rare ability to scout the minds of others.
But when she’s captured and sent to a hidden city run by an even more secretive regime, she learns her world is far more twisted—and dangerous—than she thought. This book is covered with structure: there’s a deep magical system, an authoritarian society, and a hidden war brewing beneath it all.
But at its core, it’s Paige’s story—about resistance, survival, and learning who to trust when the lines between captor and ally blur.
It is a personal struggle for power. For the Six of Crows novel fans, The Bone Season offers the same kind of strategy, secrecy, and emotional weight. Paige, like Kaz, guides systems created to control her, using her mind more than pure strength.
There’s also a strong sense of chosen family, high chances, and characters shaped by loss and loyalty.
What Makes It Similar:
Features a criminal underworld, high-stakes missions, and a lead with rare abilities. Paige and Kaz both challenge controlling systems while carrying deep scars.
Favorite line from the book- “Knowledge is dangerous. Once you know something, you can’t get rid of it.” — Samantha Shannon, The Bone Season.
7. A Darker Shade of Magic by V.E. Schwab
- Genre: Fantasy
- Publication Date: February 24, 2015
- Pages: 400
- Goodreads Rating: 4.04/5 (over 470,000 ratings)
A Darker Shade of Magic introduces a world where parallel Londons exist: Red, Grey, White, and once, Black. Each London has a different relationship with magic. Kell, one of the last rare magicians who can travel between these worlds, smuggles items across borders, even though it’s forbidden.
When one thing goes wrong, he meets Delilah Bard, a thief who wants something more than just survival. Together, they pushed into a struggle that could disturb the balance of magic itself.
The storyline is impressive for its focus on control, choice, and how power can change people. Kell gets duty and secrets in which he gets burdened. Lila wants freedom but can’t understand the price of it.
Their relationship progresses through pressure and shared risk. The magic system is clear in the book, but what matters most is how characters use it or resist it.
If you ask me, is it good? Of course it is good. Vicious and A Darker Shade of Magic are both written by the same author, V.E. Schwab.
Like books like Six of Crows, this book also offers similar kinds of strengths: morally gray leads, found-family energy, and a plot built on sharp moves and dangerous moves.
Like Kaz and Inej, Kell and Lila are survivors who learn to work together without losing their edge. There’s no wasted space; the story moves with purpose, and the emotional core stays steady.
What Makes It Similar:
Follows morally gray characters balancing risk, secrets, and power. Like Six of Crows, it’s driven by sharp planning and fragile alliances.
Favorite line from the book- “I’d rather die on an adventure than live standing still.” — V.E. Schwab, A Darker Shade of Magic.
8. The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater
- Genre: YA Paranormal, Fantasy
- Publication Date: September 18, 2012
- Pages: 409
- Goodreads Rating: 4.05/5 (over 470,000 ratings)
Some stories begin with fate, and this one begins with a warning: if Blue Sargent ever kisses her true love, he will die.
It’s about Blue and four boys from a private school—Gansey, Ronan, Adam, and Noah—who are on a search for a long-dead Welsh king said to grant a wish. Together, they bump into an unseen world filled with ley lines, hidden truths, and magic that feels just out of reach.
The heart of the story is the bond between these five characters. Each one has its own secret, and the strength of the book lies in how they fit together—messy, loyal, and always changing.
The plot moves between real-world problems (class, grief, family tension) and the supernatural. The magic isn’t loud or showy; it’s mysterious and often quiet, which makes it feel more real.
For Six of Crows readers, this book offers the same focus on a close-knit group where loyalty is earned, not assumed.
Like the Kaz’s crew, the Raven Boys are made by their pasts and kept together for a similar purpose. There’s also a similar kind of mystery, risk, and emotional weight.
The story doesn’t feel rushed—it lets each character progress, which makes the payoff stronger. I liked the feel of this book and how it immerses you in a journey.
What Makes It Similar:
Centers on a found family with complex loyalties and emotional depth. The quiet magic and deep character focus echo the heart of Kaz’s crew.
Favorite line from the book- “There are only two reasons a non-seer would see a spirit on St. Mark’s Eve… Either you’re his true love, or you killed him.” — Maggie Stiefvater, The Raven Boys.
9. The City of Brass by S.A. Chakraborty
- Genre: Historical Fantasy, Middle Eastern Mythology
- Publication Date: November 14, 2017
- Pages: 544
- Goodreads Rating: 4.14/5 (over 110,000 ratings)
The City of Brass begins in Cairo in the 18th century, where Nahri, a healer and con artist, accidentally calls up a powerful djinn while performing one of her tricks.
That one action put her into an underground realm of politics, magic, and ancient power struggles. She’s whisked away to Daevabad, a city with djinn sections warring for power, and where her own mysterious background could tip the scales.
This book blends real history with rich world-building scenarios. The magic system draws on Middle Eastern mythology but never overwhelms the human side of the story.
Nahri’s sharp instincts and outsider status make her a grounded guide through a complex situation. Alongside her are Dara, a mysterious warrior with a troubled past, and Prince Alizayd, caught between duty and belief.
It is a book with a 10 on 10 storyline, and that is why it deserves to be listed with books like Six Crows. The characters are in a similar situation, like a political conspiracy.
Both Nahri and Dara are influenced by tragedy. There are just a bunch of people who are struggling to survive in a world that was never meant to adapt to them. One of the books to read after completing Six of Crows.
What Makes It Similar:
Blends rich political tension with morally complex characters navigating shifting alliances. Like Six of Crows, it centers on survival, identity, and power plays in a dangerous world.
Favorite line from the book- “Greatness takes time, Banu Nahida. Often the mightiest things have the humblest beginnings.” — S.A. Chakraborty, The City of Brass.
Bones Points:-
These books were also deserving of the list of books like Six of Crows, but the list is completed, so I am adding these as bonus points. If you know or have already read the above books, you can try these novels also.
10. Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard
- Genre: YA Fantasy, Dystopian
- Publication Date: February 10, 2015
- Pages: 383
- Goodreads Rating: 3.99/5 (over 940,000 ratings)
Red Queen introduces a divided world like the Silvers, who have powers and they can rule, and the Reds, who do not and must serve.
Mare Barrow is a Red, living in poverty and stealing to survive until a twist of fate reveals she has powers of her own. Thrust into the middle of the Silver Court, Mare has to pretend to be one of them to stay alive while secretly helping the growing Red rebellion.
The tension in the Red Queen novel comes from its major question: what happens when the people with power aren’t the ones who deserve it? Mare doesn’t start as a fighter; she becomes one through betrayal, strategy, and choice.
The story mainly focuses on class, control, and how far people will go when they are pushed. If I tell you what element is similar is the lead character and how he was shaped by difficulties.
While Mare’s story leans more into rebellion than crime, the stakes and emotional turns echo Kaz’s world—where no one is exactly what they seem, and trust is gained moment by moment. It explains the world Mare moves through, just as it could describe the dangers Kaz and his team face.
If you liked the deception, rising tension, and power changes in Six of Crows, Red Queen offers a story built on those same themes with its own twists along the way.
What Makes It Similar:
Both stories explore corrupt systems and divided classes, with a sharp lead navigating lies and betrayal. Mare and Kaz are shaped by survival, not privilege.
Favorite line from the book- “Anyone can betray anyone.” — Victoria Aveyard, Red Queen
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11. Serpent & Dove by Shelby Mahurin
- Genre: YA Fantasy, Romance
- Publication Date: September 3, 2019
- Pages: 528
- Goodreads Rating: 3.97/5 (over 290,000 ratings)
It’s a story about a witch named Lou who is hiding from her past and a witch hunter named Reid who was raised to see magic as evil.
Twist of fate: they are suddenly forced into marriage on the pull of lies and fear. As they get closer to each other.
The book is set in a world where the church hunts witches and the magic comes at a cost. They have to make difficult choices because Reid follows rules and believes in order.
The tension builds slowly, and Lou uses wit and instinct to survive. Books like Six of Crows and Serpent & Dove have the same strong appeals.
Both stories feature characters who operate in the gray, doing what is not clean or easy. There’s sharp dialogue, moral conflict, and growing trust between people who start on opposite sides. Like Kaz and Inej, Lou and Reid navigate danger while trying to stay true to themselves.
I think If you liked the balance of tension, risk, and emotional shifts in Six of Crows, Serpent & Dove delivers those same elements through a clash of belief, identity, and survival.
What Makes It Similar:
Features a reluctant partnership between enemies and a slow-burning bond built on distrust. Like Six of Crows, it blends magic, danger, and moral gray areas.
Favorite line from the book- “Love makes fools of us all, darling.” — Shelby Mahurin, Serpent & Dove
Vicious vs. The Lies of Locke Lamora: Which One Should You Read First?
If you are confused between Vicious and The Lies of Locke Lamora, here’s a quick breakdown to help.
Tone & Focus:
- Vicious is darker and more introspective. It dives into themes of revenge, power, and the line between hero and villain. It’s character-driven, with a tight focus on two central figures.
- The Lies of Locke Lamora is fast-paced and plot-heavy, filled with clever cons, twists, and a rich criminal underworld. The tone is lighter in style, but still sharp and smart.
Characters:
- Vicious explores rivalry and moral tension between two ex-friends.
- Locke Lamora builds around friendship, trust, and a crew dynamic similar to Six of Crows.
Worldbuilding:
- Vicious keeps the setting minimal and grounded in a near-modern world.
- Locke Lamora offers detailed fantasy with politics, class systems, and a vibrant city.
Choose Vicious if you want:
- A morally complex story
- A study of power and identity
Choose Locke Lamora if you want:
- Heists, humor, and crew chemistry
- A richly layered fantasy world
Where to Buy These Books
You can find all the Novels listed in this guide at trusted retailers, both online and in-store. Whether you prefer physical copies or digital formats, here are some reliable places to buy them: (note: this link is non-affiliated)
- Amazon—Offers both print and Kindle editions, often with fast delivery and bundle deals.
- Kindle Store—Perfect for eBook lovers who want instant access on mobile, tablet, or Kindle devices.
- Barnes & Noble—Great for hardcover and paperback editions, with exclusive signed copies for some titles.
- Penguin Random House—Visit the publisher’s site for direct purchases, exclusive releases, and bonus content.
Final Thoughts
I hope you will love the list I have selected. You must share it with your friends who love to read fantasy books. Six of Crows hit a rare nerve in YA fantasy not just because of its heist plot or magical world, but because it treated its characters with real weight.
All the books above carry that same spirit vibe forward, whether in fantasy cities, post-apocalyptic futures, or grounded magic realism.
Each of them is worth your time, and you don’t need to rush. If a title catches your eye, dig in; you might just find a new favorite crew.
You must tell me in the comment the name of your favorite book from this list and which book you chose from this list for your TBR.
FAQ:-
Q: Are these books all YA?
Ans: Most are YA, though some like The Lies of Locke Lamora or Vicious lean into adult territory.
Q: Is there romance in these books?
Ans: Some have it, some don’t. If you’re looking for subtle or slow-burn romance, several picks above deliver it without being the main focus. You can also check out my different posts with a main focus on romance tropes.
Q: Do I need to read Shadow and Bone before Six of Crows?
Ans: It’s not necessary to read Shadow and Bone before Six of Crows, but it helps. Six of Crows is set in the same world but features new characters and a separate plot. Reading Shadow and Bone first provides deeper world-building context, especially regarding the Grisha and Ravka.
Hi, I’m Nik — a passionate reader with a soft spot for romance and a deep love for fantasy. I started this journey to connect with fellow book lovers and help readers discover magical worlds, epic adventures, and hidden gems that deserve more attention. Whether it’s a slow-burn romance, a best-friends-to-lovers story, or an epic fantasy with rich lore, I’m here to guide you to your next favorite read. My content is all about sharing honest book reviews am not a pro), thoughtful reading guides, and diving deep into the fantasy and romance genres. If you’re looking for real opinions, underrated book recommendations, or just a place to celebrate the joy of reading, you’re in the right place.
Let’s explore powerful love stories and unforgettable worlds—one book at a time.