The Language of Thorns: Midnight Tales and Dangerous Magic

Welcome back to the Grishaverse, but it will not quite be what you remember. While The Language of Thorns mentions familiar places and powers, this is a whole new look at the world. You'll learn about the fables that your favorite characters grew up with and the cautionary tales told before bedtime. Leigh Bardugo has spun her take on fairy tales and fit them into the Grishaverse.

This novel was marketed as a prequel of sorts, but it doesn't ever really connect with the books she has already written. The only thing that makes this part of the same world are the interwoven cities, races and abilities. The final tale did hint at a possible Darkling tie in, but to me, the pieces didn't quite line up enough.

This was an entertaining read, but it lacked the thrill of the other books in this world. Retelling fairytales doesn't allow for sudden cliffhangers or deft defying feats. It was a good book, but not something necessary to read if you enjoy her other series. If you want a light read to tie you over until her next book release, then, by all means, pick this one up, but don't expect the same level of excitement.