Author: Leigh Bardugo
Series: The Grisha #1
Publication: June 6th 2013 by Indigo
Genre: Young Adult ~ Fantasy
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Kobo
Cover Rating: 5/5
Overall Rating: 4/5
The Shadow Fold, a swathe of impenetrable darkness, crawling with monsters that feast on human flesh, is slowly destroying the once-great nation of Ravka. Alina, a pale, lonely orphan, discovers a unique power that thrusts her into the lavish world of the kingdom's magical elite - the Grisha. Could she be the key to unravelling the dark fabric of the Shadow Fold and setting Ravka free? The Darkling, a creature of seductive charm and terrifying power, leader of the Grisha. If Alina is to fulfil her destiny, she must discover how to unlock her gift and face up to her dangerous attraction to him. But what of Mal, Alina's childhood best friend? As Alina contemplates her dazzling new future, why can't she ever quite forget him?
Glorious. Epic. Irresistible. Romance.
Shadow and Bone turned out better than I had expected. Way better. It's been a while since I've been so addicted to a book and that I had this intense pull toward to keep reading.
I was really impressed by this whole world that Leigh Bardugo created. It's pretty complex with all the foreign names for different kind of things but eventually I caught on. Sort of... But yes I kinda loved this book. And I wished I had read it sooner.
I liked Alina as the main character. She was pretty down to earth in my eyes and although she felt like she didn't belong the world before and after she found out she's part of the Grisha - once she got the hang of her powers, she was pretty great.
I really liked her friendship with Mal also. They've known each other since they were kids and have always been there for each other so, yes, it has my approval. And I'm kind of rooting for them to be together. Mal is just such a sweet guy and obviously he's been through a lot, too.
The Darkling was something else. Part of me was pretty wary and maybe a tad scared of him but the other part of me loved him. I have issues, I know. He's definitely one of more complex characters and yeah, he kind of ripped my heart out. Actually, this book in general ripped my heart out. But damn it, I loved it all.
There were moments where I absolutely loved this book and then there were moments where I liked it less. It was almost a five star book but I just missed that little something extra. I can't quite put my finger on it what exactly it was, though. After the first 50% the story slowed down a little for me, to be honest. But aside from that it was all pretty great!
Complex world-building, excellent writing, great characters - Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo has it all. Aside from some little minor points, I loved it. And I can't wait to get my hands on the second book!
About the Author:
Leigh Bardugo is the author of the New York Times bestsellers Shadow and Bone and Siege and Storm. She was born in Jerusalem, grew up in Los Angeles, and graduated from Yale University, and has worked in advertising, journalism, and most recently, makeup and special effects. These days, she’s lives and writes in Hollywood where she can occasionally be heard singing with her band.
You're not the only one. You can't help but love the Darkling.
ReplyDeleteI can not read the name Mal and not grin hahah :D
ReplyDeleteBut next mission, get the second book so there's no waiting from book to book
I second the motion on The Darkling. I'm so conflicted about him. I, too, wish I had read this book earlier. Behind on the times, but now I don't have to wait forever for the final book. Great review!
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