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Shadow and Bone (The Grisha Trilogy) Reading Order.

Authorby Leigh Bardugo
3 Entries
Quick Answer

Start with Shadow and Bone (2012).

The Shadow and Bone trilogy is the foundational work of the Grishaverse, defined by the author as 'Tsarpunk'—a fantasy genre drawing inspiration from early-19th-century Russia.

Where to start

Start with Shadow and Bone (2012).

  • •Six of Crows is set two years later in the same world; King of Scars continues both.
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Community Consensus

Medium Debate

"There is a strong consensus that the author (Leigh Bardugo) showed significant growth, making the duology (Six of Crows) her 'magnum opus' and a 'fun exciting adventure romp.' In contrast, the initial Grishaverse 'trilogy' (Shadow and Bone) is widely viewed as less sophisticated, sometimes referred to as disappointing, or a step backward in terms of writing style and protagonist."

Key Reddit Advice

The Six of Crows duology is considered the superior entry point and work overall, and readers should prioritize it. If reading the original trilogy is attempted, be prepared for a significant change in quality and style (moving from third-person to first-person POV and relying on a 'chosen one' trope).

Complete Series Reading Order

Publication Reading Order3 Titles

Why Publication Order?We recommend reading in Publication Order (default). This follows the author's release schedule, ensuring you experience plot twists, character growth, and world-building exactly as intended without spoilers.
Best Start Here
1

Shadow and Bone

Pub: 2012

Orphaned by the Border Wars, Alina Starkov is taken from obscurity and her only friend, Mal, to become the protegé of the mysterious Darkling, who trains her to join the magical elite in the belief that she is the Sun Summoner, who can destroy the monsters of the Fold.

2

Siege and Storm

Pub: 2013

Plot details hidden until you finish "Shadow and Bone".

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.

3

Ruin and Rising

Pub: 2014

Plot details hidden until you finish "Siege and Storm".

"The Darkling rules Ravka from his shadow throne. Alina forges new alliances as she and Mal search for Morozova's last amplifier. But as she begins to unravel the Darkling's secrets, she reveals a past that alters her understanding of the bond they share and the power she wields"--Provided by publisher.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What order should I read Shadow and Bone (The Grisha Trilogy) in?

Start with Shadow and Bone (2012).

How many books are in Shadow and Bone (The Grisha Trilogy)?

3 main books, published 2012–2014.

Can I read Shadow and Bone (The Grisha Trilogy) out of order?

It's best not to. The books build on each other, so reading out of order spoils earlier twists.

Has Shadow and Bone (The Grisha Trilogy) been adapted for TV or film?

Netflix's Shadow and Bone (2021–2023) combines the trilogy with characters from Six of Crows.