King of Scars is the first book in a brand-new Grishaverse duology from Leigh Bardugo. Set in Ravka, it follows Nikolai Lantsov, a clever young king who must rebuild a country scarred by civil war as enemies gather at the borders and dangerous magic stirs within him. Perfect for fans of epic fantasy and readers who crave political intrigue, bold quests, and richly drawn characters, this novel offers a thrilling, cinematic journey that invites you to root for a leader who will risk everything.

King of Scars is written with a fast, cinematic cadence that blends political maneuvering with intimate character moments. Bardugo crafts a layered world where every alliance, every rune of magic, and every choice has weight, making the reading experience gripping from first page to last. Through the perspectives of a young monk and a legendary Grisha Squaller, Nikolai’s journey dives into Ravka’s heart—where personal sacrifice and steadfast resilience illuminate the path through darkness and danger.

• Rich, expansive Grishaverse setting: Ravka’s political tensions, fragile peace, and looming threats
• Central characters: Nikolai Lantsov, a determined king under pressure, joined by a hopeful monk and a renowned Grisha Squaller
• Dark magic, high-stakes peril, and a journey of leadership under fire
• Cinematic storytelling with immersive world-building and vivid scenery
• Paperback edition features illustrations by Sara Kiplin, adding depth and color to the pages
• Themes of sacrifice, resilience, and the ongoing battle between light and shadow

After finishing King of Scars, readers emerge with a deeper appreciation for the Grishaverse’s enduring stakes and a renewed belief in courage, loyalty, and hope. This is a story that lingers—twisting toward the next chapter in the epic narrative Bardugo continues to expand—and invites you to return to Ravka again and again.