Siege and Storm (The Shadow and Bone Trilogy, 2) – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

Siege and Storm (The Shadow and Bone Trilogy, 2)

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

book2014

88%

WISE Score

4.4

Amazon

Alina tries to save a kingdom without losing her mind, while a charming privateer basically hijacks the entire plot for the better.

Siege and Storm (The Shadow and Bone Trilogy, 2)

book

2014

88%

WISE Score

4.4

Amazon

Alina tries to save a kingdom without losing her mind, while a charming privateer basically hijacks the entire plot for the better.

4.4

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Screenwise Verdict

This is the classic 'bridge' book of a trilogy. It avoids the sophomore slump largely because it introduces Nikolai, a character so good he eventually got his own spin-off series.

It’s darker and more political than the first book, moving away from the 'school for magic' vibe and into the 'war is hell' reality. If your kid liked the first one, they’ll likely devour this, even if the romantic drama between Alina and Mal gets a bit repetitive. It’s a solid, imaginative read that doesn't talk down to its audience.

Age Fit

Best for 13 and up. It’s squarely in the YA lane—mature enough to handle 'forbidden magic' and complex romantic tension, but still safe for the average middle-schooler.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

The core relationships are strained by secrets and power struggles. While it models loyalty and sacrifice, the 'love triangle' and the villain's manipulative obsession lean into darker emotional territory.

Imaginative

Bardugo’s 'Small Science' is a brilliantly realized magic system, and the introduction of the Sturmhond and his flying ship adds a fresh, swashbuckling layer to the established world-building.

Safe

Standard YA fantasy fare. There’s magic-based violence, some blood, and intense psychological pressure from the villain, but nothing that would shock a reader prepared for the first book.

Enriching

It tackles the heavy burden of leadership and the isolation that comes with being put on a pedestal. It asks tough questions about whether the end justifies the means when using 'forbidden' power.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Nikolai Lantsov is arguably the best character in the series, bringing much-needed wit and charisma to the story.
Explores the 'cost' of magic in a way that feels consequential rather than just a plot device.
The political maneuvering and the struggle to lead an army add more depth than a standard 'chosen one' narrative.
High-stakes action sequences, including naval (and aerial) battles that keep the pacing tight.

⚠

What to Watch For

The Darkling’s obsession with Alina borders on psychological abuse and can be quite heavy for younger readers.
Alina and Mal’s relationship involves a lot of brooding and communication breakdowns that might frustrate some kids.
The 'merzost' (forbidden magic) involves some body-horror elements and creepy supernatural consequences.

Conversation Starters

"Is Nikolai actually trustworthy, or is he just better at hiding his motives than the Darkling?"
"Why is Mal struggling so much with Alina having power, and is his reaction fair to her?"
"If you had to choose between being a 'Saint' everyone worshipped or just a normal person, which would you pick?"
"Does Alina's use of dark magic make her more like the Darkling, or can you use bad tools for good reasons?"

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