In King of Scars, Leigh Bardugo returns to the Grishaverse, following King Nikolai Lantsov of Ravka as he battles dark forces both outside and within himself. After surviving an encounter with dark magic that left him scarred, Nikolai is burdened with a curse that threatens to consume him. As Ravka teeters on the brink of collapse, Nikolai must navigate the complexities of political alliances, personal demons, and the heavy weight of leadership. Alongside his trusted companions, including Zoya and Nina, Nikolai embarks on a journey to confront the magic that haunts him, risking everything for the survival of his people. The novel delves into themes of power, sacrifice, and the struggle for identity. As Nikolai grapples with the responsibilities of kingship, King of Scars offers an intense, emotional exploration of the burdens of leadership, loyalty, and the price of survival. Bardugo’s rich world-building and character depth make this a must-read for fans of the Grishaverse.