Rule of Wolves (King of Scars Book 2)
#2 of 2 in King of Scars Duology Series
on Goodreads (165,122)
What’s inside...
Rule of Wolves is the second installment in the King of Scars duology, set in Leigh Bardugo's Grishaverse. The novel continues to follow the adventures of Nikolai Lantsov, the young king of Ravka, as he deals with the aftermath of a devastating war and the looming threats of political intrigue, ancient magic, and unimaginable monsters. Together with the Grisha general Zoya Nazyalensky and the cunning spy Nina Zenik, Nikolai must navigate a dangerous world of espionage, betrayal, and dark magic in order to protect his kingdom and the ones he loves. The wolves are circling and a young king will face his greatest challenge in the explosive finale of the instant #1 New York Times-bestselling King of Scars Duology. As Fjerda's massive army prepares to invade, Nikolai Lantsov will summon every bit of his ingenuity and charm—and even the monster within—to win this fight. But a dark threat looms that cannot be defeated by a young king's gift for the impossible. Zoya Nazyalensky has lost too much to war. She saw her mentor die and her worst enemy resurrected, and she refuses to bury another friend. Now duty demands she embrace her powers to become the weapon her country needs. No matter the cost. Deep undercover, Nina Zenik risks discovery and death as she wages war on Fjerda from inside its capital. But her desire for revenge may cost her country its chance at freedom and Nina the chance to heal her grieving heart. King. General. Spy. Together they must find a way to forge a future in the darkness. Or watch a nation fall. The Grishaverse will be coming to Netflix soon with Shadow and Bone, an original series!
Character compass
Nikolai Lantsov
Ehri Kir-Taban
Nina Zenik
Zoya Nazyalensky
Genya Safin
Mayu Kir-Kaat
David Kostyk
Hanne Brum
Queen Makhi Kir-Taban
Jarl Brum
Prince Rasmus
Aleksander Morozova (The Darkling)
Discussion points
How do the characters in the book demonstrate resilience in the face of adversity?
What decisions would you have made if you were in the shoes of the main character, Nikolai?
How do the relationships between the characters evolve throughout the story?
In what ways do the characters' struggles mirror challenges we face in our world today?
What does the concept of 'sacrifice' mean to you, and how is it portrayed in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the parallels between the fantasy world in the book and real-world events. This can help deepen their understanding of the narrative and its relevance.
Discuss the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by the characters. Ask your child what they would do differently, and why.
Invite your child to express which character they felt most connected to and explore the reasons behind their choices.
Use the rich, fantastical elements of the story to ignite your child's imagination, asking them to describe or even draw scenes they found particularly vivid or meaningful.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Characters in 'Rule of Wolves' encounter numerous challenges and opposition but continuously strive to overcome them, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to persist through difficulties in school or in personal endeavors, understanding that obstacles are a part of growth.
Example Lesson: Importance of alliances and teamwork
Explanation: The protagonists realize that working together and forming alliances is crucial in achieving their goals, mirroring the importance of cooperation and diplomacy.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of teamwork in accomplishing tasks more effectively, whether in sports, school projects, or family activities.
Example Lesson: Ethical leadership and responsibility
Explanation: The leaders in the story grapple with tough decisions and the consequences of their actions, highlighting responsible and ethical leadership.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to take responsibility for their actions and consider the effects of their decisions on others around them.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding diverse perspectives
Explanation: As characters interact with various cultures and confront their biases, the book underscores the importance of empathy and understanding.
Real-World Application: This can help children appreciate diverse perspectives and foster an inclusive attitude towards people from different backgrounds.
Example Lesson: Courage to stand up for what is right
Explanation: Throughout the narrative, characters are faced with moments where they must stand up for justice and what they believe in, despite the risks.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to act with integrity and stand up against wrongdoing, whether in the playground or in other social settings.