Summary
AlthoughSix of Crowsshowcases three unique and heartwarming romances, only one of them takes the title ofbest enemies-to-lovers arcin all of romantasy. First released back in 2015,Six of Crowsis the first of a duology written by literary darling, Leigh Bardugo. The story takes place in Bardugo’s Grishaverse, and follows a group of teenage criminals who take on a massively dangerous heist. Of Bardugo’s many publications,Six of Crowsis arguably her most popular. This is because of its darkly witty ensemble cast, action-packed plot, and amazing romantic subplots.
InSix of Crows,there are three main romantic pairings. First, there isKaz and Inej. The leader of the Crows and the spy known as the Wraith have the slowest burn of the entire series. In many respects, they should never work out. Yet, even Kaz’s deep-seated trauma cannot keep him from developing feelings for Inej. Next, there is Jesper and Wylan. This LGBTQ romance is somewhat quick, but no less exciting. The duo are near opposites, yet they can’t help but be attracted to each other. Finally, there’s the enemies-to-lovers, Nina and Matthias.
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Nina & Matthias' Enemies-To-Lovers Arc In Six Of Crows Was Genuinely Earned
Nina & Matthias Have A Reason To Hate Each Other
What sets Nina and Matthias apart from the otherSix of Crowscrew, and also, from other popular romantasy couples, is their true enemies-to-lovers dynamic. Although enemies-to-lovers is an incredibly beloved trope among romance readers, the way it culminates in books doesn’t always make sense. Oftentimes, a couple is considered enemies-to-lovers, yet they are only enemies for the first few chapters. Their “hatred” is a result of a misunderstanding or one simple mistake. However, Nina and Matthias aren’t like that.This pairing actually has valid reasons to hate each other, which they overcome for love.
Though Matthias should kill Nina without hesitation, he is too enthralled by her fierce beauty and charm.
The crux of Nina and Matthias' relationship is the generations-long hatred that makes their people enemies. Matthias is aDruskelle, or a Grisha witch hunter. Nina is a Grisha. Though Matthias should kill Nina without hesitation, he is too enthralled by her fierce beauty and charm. Ultimately, this leads them into a begrudging relationship where neither understands the other, yet are too intrigued to leave each other alone. Furthermore,when Nina and Matthias own up to their feelings, they must move past their beliefsto see each other as true equals. In this way, the enemies part is truly meaningful.
It Took More Than Physical Attraction To Break Down The Barriers Between Nina & Matthias
Nina and Matthias certainly had a reason to hate each other, which makes them a strong enemies-to-lovers. However, what is even better is thatBardugo didn’t let the characters forget their pasts. Although Nina and Matthias' attraction to each other opened the door to their relationship, they had to put in some serious work to be able to be a happy couple. Matthias had to unlearn his Fjerdan teachings and betterunderstand Grisha magic. Meanwhile, Nina had to come to terms with Matthias' religious leanings and love for his country.
Shadow and Bone
Siege and Storm
Ruin and Rising
Kaz, Inej, Jesper, Nina, Matthias, and Wylan
Rule of Wolves
Nikolai, Zoya, Nina
All in all, Nina and Matthias are the prime example of a great enemies-to-lovers pairing. AlthoughSix of Crowshas more than one outstanding romance, Nina and Matthias deserve special praise. Though many other authors have tried to recreate a connection as good as this one, most romances pale in comparison to this true enemies-to-lovers duo.
Six of Crows
“Six of Crows” by Leigh Bardugo is a duology set in a fantasy world where a group of six outcasts and criminals undertake a dangerous heist. Led by the cunning Kaz Brekker, they navigate betrayal, secrets, and dark magic to achieve their mission. The series takes place in the author’s wider “Grishaverse.”
