When Among Crows by Veronica Roth

*** Review ***

Veronica Roth, renowned for the Divergent series, ventures into the realm of dark urban fantasy with When Among Crows, offering a spellbinding narrative steeped in Eastern European folklore, bone swords, witches, and a quest for redemption. The story unfolds in the heart of Chicago, where Dymitr, a soul-split knight, and Ala, burdened by a cursed inheritance, join forces for a perilous journey to seek the legendary witch Baba Jaga. Roth crafts a compact and action-packed tale, packing under 200 pages with a vivid world of Polish-inspired demons, Knights of a Holy Order, and enchanting witches.

Attracted initially by the striking cover and Roth’s esteemed reputation, I delved into this novella expecting a unique fantasy experience. True to Roth’s style, the narrative quickly captivates with its dark and immersive atmosphere, swiftly moving from the introduction to a relentless succession of events. The brevity of the novella leaves a lingering desire for more, not due to any shortcomings but as a testament to the intriguing world and characters created.

The narrative is driven by Dymitr’s pain, his soul cleaved to craft a sword from his spine, and Ala’s cursed existence inherited from her mother. The stakes are high, and their paths cross in a desperate bid for a cure. Roth’s storytelling prowess shines as she seamlessly weaves Eastern European lore into the fabric of the plot. The concept is tantalizing, and the execution leaves readers hooked on the unfolding events during the intense 36-hour timeline.

One of the novella’s strengths lies in Roth’s refined writing style. She avoids heavy-handed metaphors, offering just enough to evoke vivid imagery. The scenes come alive, from Baba Jaga’s mysterious theater to the palpable scent of Ala’s fear. The bone blade’s appearance is visceral, evoking physical reactions from readers. Roth strikes a balance, not inundating the narrative with unnecessary allegories but providing sufficient depth for immersive storytelling.

When Among Crows introduces readers to a fantastical paranormal side of Chicago, exploring hidden layers beneath its surface. The novella unfolds as a mini-road trip and quest, taking cues from fairytales and myths, and features a quest for favor from the enigmatic witch Baba Jaga. Roth navigates themes of family, destruction, and found families, showcasing an improved storytelling finesse compared to some of her earlier works.

The characters, while introduced in a limited space, manage to leave a lasting impression. Dymitr, Ala, and the supporting cast contribute to the dark and atmospheric tone of the narrative. The action is well-paced, and Roth successfully expands on existing lore, creating a unique escape into a world where pain serves as both weapon and curse.

However, a few moments in the novella feel somewhat forced, and some elements don’t hit their mark entirely. It takes a while to become fully invested in the characters, a challenge heightened by the novella’s concise format. Nevertheless, the overall experience is enjoyable, offering a short and satisfying fantasy read.

When Among Crows proves that meaningful world-building, intricate characters, and emotional depth need not be confined to lengthy tomes. Roth’s creation resonates as a beautiful and impactful novella, leaving readers yearning for an extended exploration of this captivating world. The dark glimpse into the paranormal beneath Chicago’s surface, the enchanting quest, and the blend of Eastern European lore make this novella a standout addition to Roth’s repertoire.