jules_feyredarling 's review for:

When Among Crows by Veronica Roth

4.5

dark medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

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"When among crows, you must caw as they do."

From the very first page, When Among Crows pulled me into its haunting, folklore-filled world and never let go. Rooted in Slavic mythology and full of gothic atmosphere, this is a story that explores the weight of legacy, the complexity of forgiveness, and the question of who we become when raised in darkness.

The emotional centre of this book lies in Dymitr, a character so deeply conflicted and richly developed that his internal struggle is felt on every page. Roth skillfully shows how upbringing and blood may influence us, but do not have to define who we are. The nature versus nurture theme is especially powerful in the way Dymitr pushes against the cruel beliefs he was raised with, even as his family continues to live by them.

I loved the exploration of friendship and found family, particularly the painful truths that surface between characters and how they navigate them. The story asks how much we are willing to risk for redemption and whether forgiveness is truly possible.

Baba Jaga's presence was a personal highlight. She is both fascinating and fearsome, and I was thrilled to see her woven into this world in such a compelling way. I am also incredibly grateful to have received an ARC of book two. I finished this one and immediately wanted more.

"Eternity is long, Dymitr. Time enough for hearts to soften."

Read this if you enjoyed: The Bear and the Nightingale, The Witch’s Heart, or character-driven fantasy inspired by folklore, filled with quiet intensity and emotional depth.