One for Sorrow: Daughter of Crows by Mark Lawrence

In the first book of the Academy of Kindness series, an elderly woman named Rue is pulled back into a dark world of violence when her friends are murdered. Her story unfolds through a series of flashbacks - from her origins in a home of darkness and fear to her time at the Academy of Kindness, where girls are sold into a life in which they must learn to kill or be killed, even by their fellow students. Over ten years at the Academy, out of 100 girls in each class, only three survive to be sent out into the world to hunt monsters.

Because who best to catch the human monsters than other monsters?

Welcome to Daughter of Crows by Mark Lawrence. 

Grimdark says, "CAW!"

It’s a bit of a surprise that I haven’t previously reviewed anything by Mark Lawrence, because I devour everything he writes almost as soon as it hits shelves. He’s authored one of my favorite trilogies about libraries, explored what it would mean to be a nun in an order sworn to protect the world, and created characters you love and hate in equal measure. He’s one of the better fantasy authors working today, in part because he doesn’t shy away from inclusivity. His characters feel distinct and fully realized - even when their personalities are deeply flawed.

Now he’s launched a new trilogy, telling Rue’s story through glimpses of the present interwoven with flashbacks. At first, these flashbacks employ some clever misdirection before the narrative fully centers on Rue. The magic system is equally compelling, balancing innate abilities with powers enhanced by fear, violence, and alchemical solutions - not all of which are survivable.

What I enjoy most about Lawrence’s writing is his use of misdirection, often hinted at in unexpected ways. In this novel, for example, we see the perspectives of multiple students during Rue’s time at the Academy. Given what happens to Rue, it doesn’t feel outside the bounds of this world for someone to return from the dead.

Another strength of Lawrence’s work is his expansive world-building. He weaves in elements that echo our own world - such as the names of the Furies, on which the Kindnesses are based. Even when the broader lore isn’t the focus, it invites speculation: is this a distant future where only fragments of our myths remain?

Altogether, if you’re interested in something that blends dark academia, grimdark, and a grumpy old lady protagonist, this is a strong start to a series you’ll likely enjoy.

And remember: when the world feels dark and the monsters are no longer on your side, I’ll be here with another recommendation, should you need it.