I am back with another Monday Reviews! This week, I am talking about Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo.
First, a brief synopsis:
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 fulfill 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.
Wow! This book was really, really, REALLY good! I was actually surprised and how much I enjoyed this book. I am usually not a huge fan of fantasy, but this didn't feel like fantasy. I knew within the first chapter that I wanted to read the rest of the series.
I thought that the characters were well developed and the concept of the Grisha powers were actually conceivable. They were explained with science and used the elements around them to work, which is much more plausible than, "oh I can make fire with my fingers!" and for that, I am thankful.
I know that this book and series has gotten some bad reviews, but pick it up and you will not regret it.
I gave it a full 5/5 stars on Goodreads.