Hell Bent by Leigh Bardugo

Title: Hell Bent
Author: Leigh Bardugo
Publisher: Flatiron Books
Genre: Dark Fantasy, Urban Fantasy
Year of Publication: 2023
Date of Publication: January 10, 2023
Pages: 496
ISBN-10: 1250313102
ISBN-13: 978-1250313102

Summary

Main Plot & Characters

Hell Bent is the sequel to Ninth House, following Galaxy “Alex” Stern as she navigates Yale’s world of secret societies and powers.

Determined to rescue her mentor Darlington from purgatory, Alex assembles a group of allies, including the resourceful Dawes and Detective Turner.

Together, they must decipher cryptic texts and brave dangerous rituals, attempting to open a pathway to the underworld.

When several faculty members turn up dead in mysterious circumstances, Alex suspects the dark societies may be involved, further complicating her mission and testing her loyalty to those she holds dear.

Key Themes

• Power and Consequences: The novel looks into the price of power, with Alex and her friends facing moral and physical risks as they tamper with forbidden knowledge.
• Friendship and Loyalty: Alex’s devotion to saving Darlington and the bonds she forms with her team underscore themes of loyalty and the power of friendship in dark times.
• Self-Identity and Purpose: Alex’s experiences challenge her to confront her past and determine her role within Yale’s supernatural underworld.

Writing Style

Bardugo’s writing is very descriptive. She blends dark academia with supernatural suspense. Her detailed descriptions and witty dialogue bring depth to Alex’s character and Yale’s environment.

She also builds on the characters from the first book creating continuity.

The novel maintains a fast pace with twists, delivering both suspense and humor.

Impact of Hell Bent

Hell Bent is a book with compelling characters, layered storytelling, and rich blends of fantasy and realism.

Bardugo’s explores loyalty, sacrifice, and power cementing her series’ place within the dark fantasy genre. Readers who enjoy dark academia and paranormal themes, will enjoy Hell Bent.

What are your thoughts on this book? Have you had a chance to read it? Let us know in the comments!