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Curse Bearer #2
To Clutch a Razor
#1 New York Times bestselling author Veronica Roth pulls from Slavic folklore to explore family, duty, and what it means to be a monster in this sequel to the USA Today bestselling novella When Among Crows. This program features multicast narration.
"The second volume of Roth's Curse Bearer duology requires the highly skilled quartet of narrators to present concepts based on Slavic folklore, often while speaking in Polish accents and employing foreign terms. Happily, the four narrators clear those hurdles, making for a smooth listening experience."—AudioFile
A funeral. A heist. A desperate mission.
When Dymitr is called back to the old country for the empty night, a funeral rite intended to keep evil at bay, it's the perfect opportunity for him to get his hands on his family's most guarded relic—a book of curses that could satisfy the debt he owes legendary witch Baba Jaga. But first he'll have to survive a night with his dangerous, monster-hunting kin.
As the sun sets, the line between enemies and allies becomes razor-thin, and Dymitr’s new loyalties are pushed to their breaking point.
Family gatherings can be brutal. Dymitr’s might just be fatal.
"The second volume of Roth's Curse Bearer duology requires the highly skilled quartet of narrators to present concepts based on Slavic folklore, often while speaking in Polish accents and employing foreign terms. Happily, the four narrators clear those hurdles, making for a smooth listening experience."—AudioFile
A funeral. A heist. A desperate mission.
When Dymitr is called back to the old country for the empty night, a funeral rite intended to keep evil at bay, it's the perfect opportunity for him to get his hands on his family's most guarded relic—a book of curses that could satisfy the debt he owes legendary witch Baba Jaga. But first he'll have to survive a night with his dangerous, monster-hunting kin.
As the sun sets, the line between enemies and allies becomes razor-thin, and Dymitr’s new loyalties are pushed to their breaking point.
Family gatherings can be brutal. Dymitr’s might just be fatal.
Audible Audio
First published September 16, 2025
277 people are currently reading
23345 people want to read
About the author
Veronica Roth
63 books463k followersVeronica Roth is the New York Times best-selling author of Seek the Traitor's Son (coming 5.12.26), When Among Crows, Arch-Conspirator, Poster Girl, Chosen Ones, the Carve the Mark series, and the Divergent series. She lives in Chicago, Illinois with her husband and dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,304 reviews
October 19, 2025
real found family-ism is letting them help rob your birth family
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July 28, 2025
Having enjoyed When Among Crows, I jumped at the chance to read an advance reader copy of the next installment, To Clutch a Razor. Unfortunately, the darker emotions ratchet up without leavening from the gentler side of the scale–love, tenderness, humor–making this a more challenging read than it’s predecessor.
The plotting is unsurprising; four young adults negotiating antipathy within their families. As soon as Baba Jaga gives Dymitr a mission for the return of his soul-sword, we know he will be careening into conflict with his family of killers. Meanwhile, Niko the strzygon assassin is at odds with his own matriarch and his next assigned target is a Knight who is both cruel and prolific in her kills, the Razor: “a monster among monsters, one of the most ferocious Knights alive.” Ala, a zmora, is on the sidelines to the tasks her friends face, but she is still struggling with nightmares of her family’s deaths, and decides to take control of her life. Back in Poland, Dymitr’s sister Elza is struggling with grief at the loss of their favorite uncle as well as confusion over Dymitr’s strange behavior.
Narrative voice is a limited four person, slipping between the four. The challenges of the first book remain; namely, the challenge of differentiating the voices of four young people. The three supernaturals are tormented, while Elza is just trying to claim her place in the world. All four have so much to learn.
“She wonders if she should offer to heal him just so she doesn’t have to see him wince like that. But not until she knows where the pain came from–not until she knows what it’s teaching him.”
One of the strengths of the first book was the interesting world building, as it centers around creatures from Polish folklore brought into modern Chicago. In this book, the friends travel from Chicago to Poland. The mythology remains the most fascinating thing about the world, as plot-wise, this is essentially a story about intergenerational trauma. Deep, profound, trauma; trauma with a capital ‘T.’ There are memories of torture scenes as well as present day tortures. And these children still have so much trouble separating themselves from the perpetrators:
“But now, he’ll have to say goodbye to them knowing they would hate him if they knew what he really was. Knowing that he’ll only ever be able to lie to them. Knowing that he still loves them, no matter what they’ve done, and no matter what lies they’ve believed. And how can he blame them? He believed those lies too.”
Eventually, it gets to a place of redemption, perhaps an almost beautiful place, and discovers unexpected compassion. But it hurt so much to arrive there.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Tor/Forge books for the advance reader copy. All opinions my own. Quotes subject to change in the final publication.
The plotting is unsurprising; four young adults negotiating antipathy within their families. As soon as Baba Jaga gives Dymitr a mission for the return of his soul-sword, we know he will be careening into conflict with his family of killers. Meanwhile, Niko the strzygon assassin is at odds with his own matriarch and his next assigned target is a Knight who is both cruel and prolific in her kills, the Razor: “a monster among monsters, one of the most ferocious Knights alive.” Ala, a zmora, is on the sidelines to the tasks her friends face, but she is still struggling with nightmares of her family’s deaths, and decides to take control of her life. Back in Poland, Dymitr’s sister Elza is struggling with grief at the loss of their favorite uncle as well as confusion over Dymitr’s strange behavior.
Narrative voice is a limited four person, slipping between the four. The challenges of the first book remain; namely, the challenge of differentiating the voices of four young people. The three supernaturals are tormented, while Elza is just trying to claim her place in the world. All four have so much to learn.
“She wonders if she should offer to heal him just so she doesn’t have to see him wince like that. But not until she knows where the pain came from–not until she knows what it’s teaching him.”
One of the strengths of the first book was the interesting world building, as it centers around creatures from Polish folklore brought into modern Chicago. In this book, the friends travel from Chicago to Poland. The mythology remains the most fascinating thing about the world, as plot-wise, this is essentially a story about intergenerational trauma. Deep, profound, trauma; trauma with a capital ‘T.’ There are memories of torture scenes as well as present day tortures. And these children still have so much trouble separating themselves from the perpetrators:
“But now, he’ll have to say goodbye to them knowing they would hate him if they knew what he really was. Knowing that he’ll only ever be able to lie to them. Knowing that he still loves them, no matter what they’ve done, and no matter what lies they’ve believed. And how can he blame them? He believed those lies too.”
Eventually, it gets to a place of redemption, perhaps an almost beautiful place, and discovers unexpected compassion. But it hurt so much to arrive there.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Tor/Forge books for the advance reader copy. All opinions my own. Quotes subject to change in the final publication.
April 10, 2025
Id like for there to be another book.
November 11, 2025
I so thoroughly enjoyed this sequel! It had all the things I loved about the first volume ‘When Among Crows’; the Slavic folklore, the unique and rich world building, engaging and charming characters and a more nuanced depiction of morality and monstrous behaviour. However this second volume expanded upon all of these elements whilst enriching further layers and depth to the world. Something about this story reads as very cinematic to me and I find it easy to imagine it being translated to a video game or a screen adaptation.
The found family element in volume one was very much in its infancy and I loved getting more page time developed to these relationships. The bond being established between Dymitr and Ala and the growth of the trust in their relationship was very sweet.
I hate to such a basic bitch, but I have to admit that I am a complete glutton for the romance between Dymitr and Niko. In volume one the reader only got a generous sprinkling of the potential romance between these two, so I appreciated getting more page time dedicated to the development of their blossoming relationship in this volume (mind you there is no spice in this series thus far and I wouldn’t be surprised if it never eventuates, but their growing intimacy together is lovely).
I loved that we got to learn more about the Knights and Dymitr’s family and their special brand of magic. In volume one I had it in my mind that Dymitr must have come from an aristocratic family of old money and legacy and it was interesting to see that this was very much not the case.
I thought that the way that this book sets itself to allow for Roth to continue to write more volumes into the future was clever and this one certainly has more of a ‘cliff hanger’ element with unresolved story plots. Although devastated I have to wait, I will be sat at the table and waiting for every entry into this series Roth wants to dish up.
(P.S yes I did buy the cover art from the artists shop. I am an irresponsible adult and I plan to buy every cover that is released for this series lol)
He’s been careful, over the last few weeks, to slow himself down whenever he’s with Dymitr. His life is always a breath away from ending, thanks to his role as a zemsta, and Dymitr barely knows what he is right now, let alone who he wants to spend time with. And it’s far, far too easy for Niko to drink Dymitr down to the dregs.
The found family element in volume one was very much in its infancy and I loved getting more page time developed to these relationships. The bond being established between Dymitr and Ala and the growth of the trust in their relationship was very sweet.
I hate to such a basic bitch, but I have to admit that I am a complete glutton for the romance between Dymitr and Niko. In volume one the reader only got a generous sprinkling of the potential romance between these two, so I appreciated getting more page time dedicated to the development of their blossoming relationship in this volume (mind you there is no spice in this series thus far and I wouldn’t be surprised if it never eventuates, but their growing intimacy together is lovely).
I loved that we got to learn more about the Knights and Dymitr’s family and their special brand of magic. In volume one I had it in my mind that Dymitr must have come from an aristocratic family of old money and legacy and it was interesting to see that this was very much not the case.
I thought that the way that this book sets itself to allow for Roth to continue to write more volumes into the future was clever and this one certainly has more of a ‘cliff hanger’ element with unresolved story plots. Although devastated I have to wait, I will be sat at the table and waiting for every entry into this series Roth wants to dish up.
(P.S yes I did buy the cover art from the artists shop. I am an irresponsible adult and I plan to buy every cover that is released for this series lol)
He’s been careful, over the last few weeks, to slow himself down whenever he’s with Dymitr. His life is always a breath away from ending, thanks to his role as a zemsta, and Dymitr barely knows what he is right now, let alone who he wants to spend time with. And it’s far, far too easy for Niko to drink Dymitr down to the dregs.
Want to read
January 17, 2025There’s a sequel 👀👀👀
October 22, 2025
One of the best books, if not the best, I’ve read this year. I literally couldn’t put it down: I’m the type of person who goes to bed at 11, and I stayed well past midnight reading this – and I only managed to stop because I’m in the middle of exam season!
I think this book is just perfect. It’s (quite) short and fast paced, but it doesn’t lack poetry in descriptions: it’s very immersive and evocative. The characters are so well rounded and so different from each other and you cannot not feel for them, their emotions being so raw, so real. The writing is beautiful, everything is vivid and alive, and slavic folklore gives the story another layer of charm. Also, such peculiar familiar dynamics are very well executed in their spacious range and complexity.
This review may sound like a repetition of the first book’s review, but the series is just so good and I’d encourage everyone to read it. I really hope another book is on its way.
I think this book is just perfect. It’s (quite) short and fast paced, but it doesn’t lack poetry in descriptions: it’s very immersive and evocative. The characters are so well rounded and so different from each other and you cannot not feel for them, their emotions being so raw, so real. The writing is beautiful, everything is vivid and alive, and slavic folklore gives the story another layer of charm. Also, such peculiar familiar dynamics are very well executed in their spacious range and complexity.
This review may sound like a repetition of the first book’s review, but the series is just so good and I’d encourage everyone to read it. I really hope another book is on its way.
September 16, 2025
what a sequel this was!
every word, every action, and every emotion was deliberately chosen by the author and it shows. this was such an impactful story for only being 250 pages.
the story picks up right where we left off in book one and the pacing was immaculate. it has fleshed out characters, a well developed plot, and motivations that make SENSE. not every action made by the characters is forgivable, but that’s what makes them so realistic and you can’t help but root for them!
like I said with the first book, reading this sequel was extra special due to the heavy involvement of polish characters and culture. it was a wonderful experience to see my culture and my people represented well and thoroughly researched!
I also love how the story feels wrapped up after each book, yet there’s still open ended questions and plot lines that leave room for further exploration (please do!!!)
overall, I’ve enjoyed both books in this series immensely and highly recommend! can’t wait to see what other stores may or may not come from this world, but either way I’m satisfied where we ended.
thank you to NetGalley, Tor Publishing, and the author for a copy of an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
every word, every action, and every emotion was deliberately chosen by the author and it shows. this was such an impactful story for only being 250 pages.
the story picks up right where we left off in book one and the pacing was immaculate. it has fleshed out characters, a well developed plot, and motivations that make SENSE. not every action made by the characters is forgivable, but that’s what makes them so realistic and you can’t help but root for them!
like I said with the first book, reading this sequel was extra special due to the heavy involvement of polish characters and culture. it was a wonderful experience to see my culture and my people represented well and thoroughly researched!
I also love how the story feels wrapped up after each book, yet there’s still open ended questions and plot lines that leave room for further exploration (please do!!!)
overall, I’ve enjoyed both books in this series immensely and highly recommend! can’t wait to see what other stores may or may not come from this world, but either way I’m satisfied where we ended.
thank you to NetGalley, Tor Publishing, and the author for a copy of an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 3, 2026
A messed up found family. A cruel blood family. A deadly deal and a heist in this Polish inspired urban fantasy.
When you’re a Knight of a revered, secret monster-hunting order and you get turned into a fear-eating nightmare creature; you have a big problem.
Dymitr is broken, but bold. Anxious, but courageous. He has a kind-of roommate and sister-by-choice in the very monster he was sent to kill. Also, his romantic partner is a hunter of his Knight order (and family).
As you can tell, the character dynamics are tense and complicated as each person tries to realign their belief systems whilst attempting to stay true to themselves.
But they don't love him, Niko thinks. Because if love doesn't allow change, then what the fuck is that love worth?
The descriptions are simple, yet evoke such an atmosphere and emotion to each scene.
With multiple perspectives, the cast feels more fleshed out as you see each chapter from someone else.
The cast is tight and the plot contained which is impressive, making this a satisfying, tantalising novella.
I would not recommend reading this by itself; it is a direct sequel with more to come.
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When you’re a Knight of a revered, secret monster-hunting order and you get turned into a fear-eating nightmare creature; you have a big problem.
Dymitr is broken, but bold. Anxious, but courageous. He has a kind-of roommate and sister-by-choice in the very monster he was sent to kill. Also, his romantic partner is a hunter of his Knight order (and family).
As you can tell, the character dynamics are tense and complicated as each person tries to realign their belief systems whilst attempting to stay true to themselves.
But they don't love him, Niko thinks. Because if love doesn't allow change, then what the fuck is that love worth?
The descriptions are simple, yet evoke such an atmosphere and emotion to each scene.
With multiple perspectives, the cast feels more fleshed out as you see each chapter from someone else.
The cast is tight and the plot contained which is impressive, making this a satisfying, tantalising novella.
I would not recommend reading this by itself; it is a direct sequel with more to come.
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Tiktok
September 16, 2025
I would like to immensely thank Edelweiss and Tor for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
To Clutch a Razor was a stunning follow up to When Among Crows, which I'd sort of lost my mind over last year. This Curse Bearer series does everything right and, like its predecessor, I could not add Book 2 to my favourites shelf fast enough!
The ferocious and atmospheric world of Slavic supernaturals was just as captivating as Book 1, with Niko, Dymitr and Ala going up against a determined holy order of hunters who prove to be more ghoulish than the actual ghouls.
This was like Pan's Labyrinth meets an ex-monster-slaying John Wick, who is now also a monster…aannd who's soft for other monsters…especially bff, Ala, and his hot bae, Niko. Stg whenever Niko and Dymitr kiss, I feel their intensity in my toes. The word "beautiful" is used 5 times in this, and 3 of those times is how Niko sees Dymitr. Through exquisite pain (emotional and physical) and soooo much blood, their intimacy evolved into something palpable, deeper, heart-throbbing, and I CANNOT WAIT for more of them in the next book!!!
Suffice it to say, I loved E V E R Y T H I N G about this Book! To Clutch a Razor gave me a book-hangover, made me mewl for love, invited the most insidious, dangerous, melancholic, otherworldly creatures into my imagination, and I could not get enough of this world!
THIS was an absolute fire win for ME, and I'll for sure be some level of floppy limbed mess until Book 3, and honestly, there's no better feeling! Can't wait!
~
~
~
RTC
When I'm done mourning that it's over
To Clutch a Razor was a stunning follow up to When Among Crows, which I'd sort of lost my mind over last year. This Curse Bearer series does everything right and, like its predecessor, I could not add Book 2 to my favourites shelf fast enough!
The ferocious and atmospheric world of Slavic supernaturals was just as captivating as Book 1, with Niko, Dymitr and Ala going up against a determined holy order of hunters who prove to be more ghoulish than the actual ghouls.
This was like Pan's Labyrinth meets an ex-monster-slaying John Wick, who is now also a monster…aannd who's soft for other monsters…especially bff, Ala, and his hot bae, Niko. Stg whenever Niko and Dymitr kiss, I feel their intensity in my toes. The word "beautiful" is used 5 times in this, and 3 of those times is how Niko sees Dymitr. Through exquisite pain (emotional and physical) and soooo much blood, their intimacy evolved into something palpable, deeper, heart-throbbing, and I CANNOT WAIT for more of them in the next book!!!
Suffice it to say, I loved E V E R Y T H I N G about this Book! To Clutch a Razor gave me a book-hangover, made me mewl for love, invited the most insidious, dangerous, melancholic, otherworldly creatures into my imagination, and I could not get enough of this world!
THIS was an absolute fire win for ME, and I'll for sure be some level of floppy limbed mess until Book 3, and honestly, there's no better feeling! Can't wait!
~
~
~
RTC
When I'm done mourning that it's over
September 18, 2025
My favorite novella got a sequel! To Clutch a Razor excels as a follow-up to the characters from the first book, expanding on their relationships, histories, wants, and fears. I love the angst and complexity that this book adds to the characters, especially Dymitr. The story really explores his feelings of guilt, responsibility, loyalty to his family, and what he has lost after the events in the first book.
To Clutch a Razor does an excellent job of exploring what comes next for these characters, asking questions of the relationship that they form in the first book after a very short amount of time. It forces these characters to consider the longevity of their relationships and to confront the ways that they have hurt each other and how they might help each other heal and grow moving forward. I really love how this book dives deeper into so much of what we see in When Among Crows.
There was a new perspective added in this sequel that, at times, felt like it was taking away from the other characters' stories. Considering how short the book is already, I didn't always love taking away page time from the three main characters to explore a perspective I was less interested in. However, I do think that, thematically, this character is really relevant.
I'm really curious to see if there is going to be a third book in this series. At the time of reading When Among Crows, I didn't even know there would be a sequel, so who knows. But I hope that there is at least one more book in this series to anchor To Clutch a Razor as part of a larger story arc. As it is, it feels a little bit tacked on to When Among Crows. The plot at times felt like it was based on things that were just added in to create the need for a sequel rather than naturally flowing from book one. I just want that third book to really tie the series together.
To be honest, I would read more than three of these books. I love the characters and the world so much that I would follow them forever.
Thank you so much to Tor for the ARC
Links to my TikTok | Instagram
To Clutch a Razor does an excellent job of exploring what comes next for these characters, asking questions of the relationship that they form in the first book after a very short amount of time. It forces these characters to consider the longevity of their relationships and to confront the ways that they have hurt each other and how they might help each other heal and grow moving forward. I really love how this book dives deeper into so much of what we see in When Among Crows.
There was a new perspective added in this sequel that, at times, felt like it was taking away from the other characters' stories. Considering how short the book is already, I didn't always love taking away page time from the three main characters to explore a perspective I was less interested in. However, I do think that, thematically, this character is really relevant.
I'm really curious to see if there is going to be a third book in this series. At the time of reading When Among Crows, I didn't even know there would be a sequel, so who knows. But I hope that there is at least one more book in this series to anchor To Clutch a Razor as part of a larger story arc. As it is, it feels a little bit tacked on to When Among Crows. The plot at times felt like it was based on things that were just added in to create the need for a sequel rather than naturally flowing from book one. I just want that third book to really tie the series together.
To be honest, I would read more than three of these books. I love the characters and the world so much that I would follow them forever.
Thank you so much to Tor for the ARC
Links to my TikTok | Instagram
November 25, 2025
give me fifteen of 'em
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October 8, 2025
oh the Slavic folklore, the characters - it‘s all so very dear to me. i wish the series were longer :(
September 16, 2025
I really enjoyed When Among Crows when I read it last year, so I went into To Clutch a Razor expecting to also enjoy it. What I did not expect was to be so thoroughly blown away by this book. To Clutch a Razor does everything that When Among Crows did--great worldbuilding, fleshed-out characters, memorable scenes--but considerably ups the ante in pretty much every way. The stakes have always been high, and here they are even higher. Where When Among Crows spent some time introducing the world and its characters to us, To Clutch a Razor picks up from where we left off and immediately gets going. There's a lot that's new here--new characters, new story, new places--but that's not to say there's no development for the characters we already know, because there is: we learn so much more about Dymitr's family in particular, their dynamics and of course his complicated feelings growing up as a Knight amongst them. Dymitr has always been such a compelling character--still waters run deep, and his waters have long been still--and here he becomes all the more so. To see him with his family only makes his story more poignant, his development all the more earned.
When I first read it, what especially struck me about When Among Crows was Veronica Roth's ability to write these big, standout scenes, linchpin moments that the story leads up to and after which the characters are fundamentally changed. In To Clutch a Razor, Roth gives us more of these scenes, and let me tell you, she spares no punches. The characters have always had to stare down the barrel of impossible situations without flinching, and so do we: Roth's writing makes sure of it. It's what makes these novellas stand out to me, these unforgettable centerpiece scenes that are so viscerally striking that they just become etched into your memory.
I really was not expecting to be so blindsided by this novella. I always thought it was going to be good, but I didn't think it would be as emotional as it was, and move me as much as it did (I definitely cried). This novella series has been such a gem and I really hope a third book is coming because I would love to see where this story goes next.
When I first read it, what especially struck me about When Among Crows was Veronica Roth's ability to write these big, standout scenes, linchpin moments that the story leads up to and after which the characters are fundamentally changed. In To Clutch a Razor, Roth gives us more of these scenes, and let me tell you, she spares no punches. The characters have always had to stare down the barrel of impossible situations without flinching, and so do we: Roth's writing makes sure of it. It's what makes these novellas stand out to me, these unforgettable centerpiece scenes that are so viscerally striking that they just become etched into your memory.
I really was not expecting to be so blindsided by this novella. I always thought it was going to be good, but I didn't think it would be as emotional as it was, and move me as much as it did (I definitely cried). This novella series has been such a gem and I really hope a third book is coming because I would love to see where this story goes next.
November 1, 2025
This novella series is gothic as hell but with a goodness that flickers like a candle in the dark. Dymitr was raised basically in a cult to zealously hunt down ‘monsters’, who is now trying to make amends and save his soul – except the price in this case is to betray his family. It’s an awful (deliciously painful) choice. He doesn’t agree with his family, he knows they’re horrible, but he still loves them. And along the way, he’s developing new friendships with his former enemies. It’s exquisitely done and it ends on a cliffhanger. There had better be another!
Thank you to the publisher for the advance reader copy.
Thank you to the publisher for the advance reader copy.
October 4, 2025
"A person fears what's unknown, but they dread what's known."
---------
'A heist'
Sold.
---------
'A heist'
Sold.
September 15, 2025
At the end of WHEN AMONG CROWS I definitely wished for more from this dark Slavic folklore-inspired world, and the complementary cast of creatures and Knights meant to rid the world of the former -- though which is the real monster, that's what we are forced to confront -- but had no idea I'd get that wish. And at the end of this one we don't have to wonder; there is definitely more to come. And I'm so so glad of that.
This sequel packed one hell of a punch, is perfectly paced, and expands on a world and existing characters that I didn't know I had missed as much as I did. But I also needed zero refresher on the previous events as things quickly came back to me; though as a nice bonus we do get hints and reminders of previous events without it feeling like a "previously, on.." segment. It was brilliantly interwoven into the narrative and that's definitely helped by the fact that this instalment deals with almost with the direct aftermath.
If love doesn't allow change, then what the fuck is that love worth?
And yes, that means we get more emo deliciousness, more Slavic sad boy summer, and this time it's actually dialed up even more. Because the stakes, the emotional reckonings, they result in a direct confrontation and subsequent transformation. And offer up some found family along the way, too. It was all really heartbreaking and beautiful.
It's not all doom and gloom, there were a few little laughs, and also some moments of tender angsty sexiness (Nikoooo), and the whole combination just.. works. I maybe also teared up a little. You know I did.
Highly recommend and I can't wait for more.
** I received an ARC from the publisher (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
---
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
This sequel packed one hell of a punch, is perfectly paced, and expands on a world and existing characters that I didn't know I had missed as much as I did. But I also needed zero refresher on the previous events as things quickly came back to me; though as a nice bonus we do get hints and reminders of previous events without it feeling like a "previously, on.." segment. It was brilliantly interwoven into the narrative and that's definitely helped by the fact that this instalment deals with almost with the direct aftermath.
If love doesn't allow change, then what the fuck is that love worth?
And yes, that means we get more emo deliciousness, more Slavic sad boy summer, and this time it's actually dialed up even more. Because the stakes, the emotional reckonings, they result in a direct confrontation and subsequent transformation. And offer up some found family along the way, too. It was all really heartbreaking and beautiful.
It's not all doom and gloom, there were a few little laughs, and also some moments of tender angsty sexiness (Nikoooo), and the whole combination just.. works. I maybe also teared up a little. You know I did.
Highly recommend and I can't wait for more.
** I received an ARC from the publisher (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
---
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
November 21, 2025
Just a strong as the first one! Love that we’re set up for the next book without it being a cliffhanger!
January 19, 2026
Absolutely loved this sequel. I really enjoyed seeing Dymitr grow in this new self and how his relationship with Ala morphed and grew for the better. All their quiet times together and how they thought of each other as siblings were lovely. Same for Nico and Dymitr, even though there was a bit of uncertainty at the beginning of the book, by the end, their relationship was more defined, as well as the care and affection they have for each other.
The quest to retrieve the book was anxiety-inducing in the best way. I liked how the lore of the Knights was more deeply explained. I also think the interactions between Ala and Elsa provided a bit of hope for the future of Dymitr's relationship with both of his sisters.
Now I just need more Nico/Dymitr/Ala books, please and thank you. I need to know what happens to the curses and the sword. Even though the ending is good, I also feel they have much more to tell.
The quest to retrieve the book was anxiety-inducing in the best way. I liked how the lore of the Knights was more deeply explained. I also think the interactions between Ala and Elsa provided a bit of hope for the future of Dymitr's relationship with both of his sisters.
Now I just need more Nico/Dymitr/Ala books, please and thank you. I need to know what happens to the curses and the sword. Even though the ending is good, I also feel they have much more to tell.
August 25, 2025
4.5
"I know they're monsters. But a man can love a monster"
"A man can love a monster, yes. And a man can also kill the thing he loves"
Book Stats:
📖: 232 pages
Genre: Fantasy
Publisher: Tor
Format: eARC from publisher/Netgalley
Series: 2/2 The Curse Bearer Series
Audiobook Stats:
⏰: 5 hours 46 minutes
🎤: Helen Laser, James Fouhey, Nina Yndis, Tim Campbell
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Format: Multi POV / Full Cast
Themes:
💫: Explores Family and Duty
💫: What it means to be a monster
💫: Religious Fundamentalism
💫: Loving people who don't deserve it
Representation:
🪽: Slavic Folklore
🪽: LGBTQIA characters
Tropes:
💗: Heist
💗: Found family
🥵: Spice: Extremely minor
Potential Triggers: **check authors page/socials for full list.
General Thoughts:
This was a fun second novel to a series. I enjoyed the expansion of the new story line as well as the continuation of the character development with our characters.
I liked the way the characters yearn so badly to be "good guys" while still remaining in that morally grey area. The way that Dymitr struggles with duty and family really mirrored my own struggles with my family and felt relatable. The holy order was framed in such a way that you could feel the oppression and stifled individuality of the characters associated. It really hit religious fundamentalism in the teeth. The themes were deep and well done.
The book really tackles the issue of loving people who you know are horrible. And how hard it can be to talk away from them despite their flaws. I felt the real pain our MMC was going through during this book.
I loved the way this book feels fully ended, yet set us up for another installment. I'm excited for what comes next.
Disclaimer: I read this book as a gifted eARC/gifted audiobook from NetGalley. All opinions are my own. This is my honest and voluntary review.
"I know they're monsters. But a man can love a monster"
"A man can love a monster, yes. And a man can also kill the thing he loves"
Book Stats:
📖: 232 pages
Genre: Fantasy
Publisher: Tor
Format: eARC from publisher/Netgalley
Series: 2/2 The Curse Bearer Series
Audiobook Stats:
⏰: 5 hours 46 minutes
🎤: Helen Laser, James Fouhey, Nina Yndis, Tim Campbell
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Format: Multi POV / Full Cast
Themes:
💫: Explores Family and Duty
💫: What it means to be a monster
💫: Religious Fundamentalism
💫: Loving people who don't deserve it
Representation:
🪽: Slavic Folklore
🪽: LGBTQIA characters
Tropes:
💗: Heist
💗: Found family
🥵: Spice: Extremely minor
Potential Triggers: **check authors page/socials for full list.
General Thoughts:
This was a fun second novel to a series. I enjoyed the expansion of the new story line as well as the continuation of the character development with our characters.
I liked the way the characters yearn so badly to be "good guys" while still remaining in that morally grey area. The way that Dymitr struggles with duty and family really mirrored my own struggles with my family and felt relatable. The holy order was framed in such a way that you could feel the oppression and stifled individuality of the characters associated. It really hit religious fundamentalism in the teeth. The themes were deep and well done.
The book really tackles the issue of loving people who you know are horrible. And how hard it can be to talk away from them despite their flaws. I felt the real pain our MMC was going through during this book.
I loved the way this book feels fully ended, yet set us up for another installment. I'm excited for what comes next.
Disclaimer: I read this book as a gifted eARC/gifted audiobook from NetGalley. All opinions are my own. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Want to read
December 29, 2024OH MY GOD MY PRAYERS HAVE BEEN ANSWERED
January 12, 2026
Veronica Roth is being robbed. We should talking about her so much more because this series is spectacular! Instead people prejudge her because of Divergent (which was pretty good, but teen at the end of the day) and thus she flies under the radar even with brilliant grimdark fantasy novellas like this. The bone swords are sooo cool, and the ideas Roth has woven into these short stories are incredible.
Whats most unexpected for a rough, dark, bloody story like this is how much I love the ending, it’s absolutely adorable! So know that while you are crying, raging, and terrified throughout there is a tiny moment of light in it all. I make no promises 90% of things don’t go poorly, because they pretty much do. But Roth reminds us that even in sorrow, trauma, and death there can still be something to find that keeps us going.
Anyone who loves Anthony Ryan, Mark Lawrence, or even Brandon Sanderson should read this series! Start with book 1 (of course). I do hope we will see more in this unique world of bone swords, allegiances with blood sacrifices, and devotion unlike any other.
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.
Whats most unexpected for a rough, dark, bloody story like this is how much I love the ending, it’s absolutely adorable! So know that while you are crying, raging, and terrified throughout there is a tiny moment of light in it all. I make no promises 90% of things don’t go poorly, because they pretty much do. But Roth reminds us that even in sorrow, trauma, and death there can still be something to find that keeps us going.
Anyone who loves Anthony Ryan, Mark Lawrence, or even Brandon Sanderson should read this series! Start with book 1 (of course). I do hope we will see more in this unique world of bone swords, allegiances with blood sacrifices, and devotion unlike any other.
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.
November 9, 2025
If this is what happens at a funeral, then god knows what would go down at a wedding.
Hopefully Dymtir and Niko’s wedding because this NEEDS to happen, yes, Veronica? Pretty please with sugar and extra sprinkles on top.
There are conflicting reports on the internet about whether there will be a volume 3 or not which will be released in 2027.
Praying this will actually happen because this ended on a cliffhanger.
Hopefully Dymtir and Niko’s wedding because this NEEDS to happen, yes, Veronica? Pretty please with sugar and extra sprinkles on top.
There are conflicting reports on the internet about whether there will be a volume 3 or not which will be released in 2027.
Praying this will actually happen because this ended on a cliffhanger.
January 31, 2026
A worthy follow-up to When Among Crows that expands that murky world. Returning characters grapple with darker magic and secrets, but also get refreshingly greater depth, both for themselves and the found family they're pulling together. If the first novella was about who they were made to be, this novella is about what they want to be.
November 5, 2025
“because if love doesn't allow change, then what the fuck is that love worth?”
guys I love this world so much, for such short books they pack a punch and create so much attachment to the characters. I can understand why I was seeing them all over social media when they first came out.
a wonderful fantasy world with folklore, complicated family relationships, traditional character archetypes with added depth, found family and queer romance all combined together to create a book that feels familiar to my soul.
I’ll be thinking about these characters and this world for such a long time <3
guys I love this world so much, for such short books they pack a punch and create so much attachment to the characters. I can understand why I was seeing them all over social media when they first came out.
a wonderful fantasy world with folklore, complicated family relationships, traditional character archetypes with added depth, found family and queer romance all combined together to create a book that feels familiar to my soul.
I’ll be thinking about these characters and this world for such a long time <3
September 17, 2025
To clutch a razor was everything I wanted, we have more information about the magic, more romance, more character building and even more polish folklore. I also love how we explored the guilt and conflicting feelings of loving someone that is not a good person. It’s the perfect addiction to When Among Crows and just as good, if not better.
It’s genius how Veronica Roth managed to write such a short book that packs such a heavy punch. Twice!
I think this is a duology but if she decides to expand it you bet I’ll be first in line for the next one, I want more of it.
It’s genius how Veronica Roth managed to write such a short book that packs such a heavy punch. Twice!
I think this is a duology but if she decides to expand it you bet I’ll be first in line for the next one, I want more of it.
November 24, 2025
Veronica Roth, tell me where to send my therapy bill and LEAVE MY SHAYLAS ALONE.
To Clutch A Razor is the second installment in the Curse Bearer series, and I really hope it’s not the last. I have completely fallen for these characters—something that doesn’t happen too often for me, and especially not over the course of two short novellas.
I am very much of the opinion that you should jump into this series knowing a minimal amount of plot information, so I won’t be spoiling that here. (Seriously, do not even read the synopsis on the first book jacket.) What you can know is that this is an urban fantasy packed with creatures inspired by Slavic folklore, mysterious quests, hurt/comfort, found family, and character arcs running the gamut of deconstruction, shame, redemption, atonement, and trust.
A drowning man will clutch a razor.
And indeed, book two really brings the violence and desperation. Our characters go THROUGH it (Dymitr baby get behind me). Oh, I was seething at times due to the amount of dehumanization and abuse being perpetrated by the villains. I’ve always gravitated towards fantasy with dark/horror elements, so this was perfect for me. But be warned that this series, and especially this sequel, is not for the faint of heart.
I don’t think To Clutch A Razor is perfect. There are some minor character decisions for which the motivations were a little unclear, and sometimes the plot veered close to feeling like a checklist because of the breakneck pace. Regardless, these issues were not damning enough to overcome my strong positive feelings about the book or series.
The audiobook performances were great as well. The casting for the original trio was perfect, and I’m glad the narrators reprised their roles for book two. There is also a new narrator for the new POV character. I generally enjoyed the new narrator’s performance, but their sharp pronunciation of Ses (yes the letter S) was a little grating. I wanted more of this character, but I was slightly relieved they didn’t have many chapters due to the narrator.
I would recommend this series to readers who like character-driven, high emotion fantasy with horror and dark elements (e.g., Asunder by Kerstin Hall) or theme-forward explorations of deconstruction, atonement, and redemption (e.g., The Wings Upon Her Back by Samantha Mills, The Six Deaths of the Saint by Alix E. Harrow).
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the Advanced Listening Copy!
To Clutch A Razor is the second installment in the Curse Bearer series, and I really hope it’s not the last. I have completely fallen for these characters—something that doesn’t happen too often for me, and especially not over the course of two short novellas.
I am very much of the opinion that you should jump into this series knowing a minimal amount of plot information, so I won’t be spoiling that here. (Seriously, do not even read the synopsis on the first book jacket.) What you can know is that this is an urban fantasy packed with creatures inspired by Slavic folklore, mysterious quests, hurt/comfort, found family, and character arcs running the gamut of deconstruction, shame, redemption, atonement, and trust.
A drowning man will clutch a razor.
And indeed, book two really brings the violence and desperation. Our characters go THROUGH it (Dymitr baby get behind me). Oh, I was seething at times due to the amount of dehumanization and abuse being perpetrated by the villains. I’ve always gravitated towards fantasy with dark/horror elements, so this was perfect for me. But be warned that this series, and especially this sequel, is not for the faint of heart.
I don’t think To Clutch A Razor is perfect. There are some minor character decisions for which the motivations were a little unclear, and sometimes the plot veered close to feeling like a checklist because of the breakneck pace. Regardless, these issues were not damning enough to overcome my strong positive feelings about the book or series.
The audiobook performances were great as well. The casting for the original trio was perfect, and I’m glad the narrators reprised their roles for book two. There is also a new narrator for the new POV character. I generally enjoyed the new narrator’s performance, but their sharp pronunciation of Ses (yes the letter S) was a little grating. I wanted more of this character, but I was slightly relieved they didn’t have many chapters due to the narrator.
I would recommend this series to readers who like character-driven, high emotion fantasy with horror and dark elements (e.g., Asunder by Kerstin Hall) or theme-forward explorations of deconstruction, atonement, and redemption (e.g., The Wings Upon Her Back by Samantha Mills, The Six Deaths of the Saint by Alix E. Harrow).
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the Advanced Listening Copy!
September 4, 2025
Filed under// I don’t know how your eyes will interpret this series, but as an audiobook, it’s a delight in my ears. Like a radio drama soap opera 🤝 Folk Lore.
This world building is a weird but fun niche TBR win.
I’m Polish and I lived in Chicago for over a decade. So while those details feel random, this series weirdly sings to me because it embraces both of these things. (Though in book 2 there is something serious travel.)
It makes me wish my grandparents told me more fairy tales, folk lore and mythology growing up.
TY, #MacAudio2025 this novella was the perfect way to kick off September.
This world building is a weird but fun niche TBR win.
I’m Polish and I lived in Chicago for over a decade. So while those details feel random, this series weirdly sings to me because it embraces both of these things. (Though in book 2 there is something serious travel.)
It makes me wish my grandparents told me more fairy tales, folk lore and mythology growing up.
TY, #MacAudio2025 this novella was the perfect way to kick off September.
November 2, 2025
RUNS AROUND IN CIRCLES SCREAMING
December 14, 2025
4.5 stars.
something about this series (duology?) just scratches an itch inside me perfectly.
PRE-RELEASE:
HELLO????????!!!!!!!!!
something about this series (duology?) just scratches an itch inside me perfectly.
PRE-RELEASE:
HELLO????????!!!!!!!!!
October 26, 2025
So good
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