Shadow and Bone (The Shadow and Bone Trilogy, 1)

I ordered the hardcover copy of this book and I was really excited to see the beautiful cover art just to find a Netflix advertisement permanently attached to the cover. At first I thought it was a sticker but no. They printed a netflix advertisement for the adaptation of the book on the cover. I really care about keeping my books nice, especially when I like the cover art. No where in the product description does it warn that the cover art is marred like this.

Plain girl learns she's the chosen one. She goes into a magic school, has classes, deals with snobs. Becomes powerful and beautiful, but spends most of her time anguished over a love triangle. This is a rehash of many other books, nothing new here. It feels like half the book is about how people look, and only the beautiful people matter. Such a sad and stupid stereotype.

Set, and written, before the Six of Crows duology. If you’re going to read this trilogy, read it first or not at all. It’s not so much that Six of Crows spoils you for plot (though it does just a little) but more that Six of Crows will spoil you for richness of characters and depth of plot. Shadow & Bone just feels lacking in comparison - a little too plain, far too cliche, a little empty on characters, and far too short. Six of Crows simply sets reader expectations too high - better to start here and work your way forward with the author’s experience level. I won’t be buying the rest of this trilogy, but rather waiting for the author to write new works.

Ms. Bardugo really has a talent with storytelling mixed in with magic and humor. I love the universe she created with its Russian words, background, culture. The harshness of being an orphan, the luxuries of the Court all really come together in a rich fantasy oil painting. Not too much detail, not too much magic theory, not too much dread and despair. It was an easy read. That aside, I couldn't really like the characters. I thought I liked the diamond-in-the-rough heroine but she never really pulled through to get her act together until the very end of this novel. She was constantly being pushed, shoved, led by others. She was easily deceived, and deceived even herself. You would think that after all this time she would figure out who she was and what she wanted. She is no longer a child but she is constantly looking to others to give her the answers. The character development was really a mixed bag of "aha!" moments the author drops like candies on the floor. No real warning, just suddenly the heroine discovers why she's so brilliant (no pun intended), the hero suddenly decides he loves her, and the villain whom I was really cheering for went from a multi-dimensional puzzle box to a textbook villain with no soul. Ugh. Disappointment central. The ending wrapped up so quickly it literally took half a chapter and one afterward to wrap it up. One moment it was all confrontation tension, the next, a miraculous resolution because the heroine just figured it all out. The problem with the big reveal is that she never really cared about anything. Not her work. Not her co-workers. Not her life. Not even her health/appearance. She lived her entire life just numb; without hope or joy, just pining after a childhood friend. She obsessed about her childhood friend as if her universe revolved around him, and despite everything that happens to her and everything she's discovered about herself she still clings to him in the end even though we were supposed to believe she completely broke free of that mold many chapters ago. So she makes a choice, willing to sacrifice all else, including the friends she didn't think she could make and innocent people, to get her HEA. What makes her so different from the enemy, then? In the next book I'm supposed to believe she wants to fight a madman and save the country (she never really care for or fit in anywhere) and its people (she never really had any connection to)? Yeah, I'm thinking I'll just let her do that without me. I'm done Alina. Have fun with that. The novel was rather short, as well. I think all three could really be reduced to two books, but for the greed of the publisher, we're forced to pay a tall price three times. The first 70% of this book was decent, but I'll save my money and read something else.

This was brilliantly imaginative and the tenderly sweet scenes will steal your heart away!! This is the first that I've read from Ms. Bardugo and I have to say that I absolutely understand her fans enthusiasm! I loved the world building and the imagery. The story kept me wanting to know what would happen next. While Alina isn't super likable, she does possess other humanesque qualities that she's easy to understand. Mal is very interesting. He would follow Alina to the ends of the Earth. But didn't seem to realize how much she meant to him until it was almost too late. I think the Darkling is intriguing. I also believe that we haven't seen the full dynamic of his character. I think there is so much more to him, and I can't wait to see what he does next. I'm very much looking forward to being swept away by the rest of the series!

It feels like I’ve been waiting for a Shadow & Bone collector’s edition for a while. And it feels like I’ve been loving this tale, longer still. It is one of four stories I recommend with my “hand in fire” seal of approval. And I mean that, truly. If the one copy of this book was tossed into a randomly conjured vortex of fiery flames, I would reach in with both hands. There are zero amount of negative reviews that could change my opinion of it. And nothing strong enough to silence my praise for it, for Leigh, and yes—for my Darkling. Its words, so familiar they are to my lips. Its shadows, so known they are to my heart; I cannot imagine it not ever being so. 🖤

4.5 stars. SHADOW AND BONE is the first book in Leigh Bardugo's Shadow and Bone trilogy. I recently read another book of hers that takes place in the same "universe" as this one, so now I'm backtracking to get to the origins. ". . . You look like you're on your way to a really good dinner instead of possible death and dismemberment." So we have our people with supernatural/magical powers, called Grisha, and then your ordinary humans. What did surprise me is that here, the King pretty much used the Grisha as slaves, in my opinion. Honestly, that was a switch, when the Grisha have all the "power", and something that took a little getting used to. Our main character, Alina Starkov turns out to have a "hidden" ability, and when this is found our story really begins. ". . . I try to make a habit of getting things hopelessly wrong." I did enjoy this story and the characters immensely. As the first book in a trilogy, naturally this one has a lot of "groundwork" laying to set things up for the next couple of novels. Despite that, Bardugo managed to make the characters interesting, infused with sarcasm, and full of "personalities" of their own. ". . . The problem with wanting is that it makes us weak." I will definitely be reading the rest of the series. Highly recommended.

I LOVE this book and was so happy to find a book that was action packed with amazing characters but also included a love story. It's so RARE to find a book like this that's entertaining and doesn't have unnecessary parts in it that's inappropriate. It's really a book for any age and I really like that. I was introduced to this book through it's television adaption on Netflix. I had heard great things about author Leigh Bardugo because of the success of her Six of Crows book series. In the past, I tried reading Six of Crows, but just wasn't feeling it until I watched the shadow and bone tv show on Netflix. My advice is to read the Shadow and Bone book BEFORE watching it on Netflix. When I watched it on Netflix, I didn't understand the context and history of the characters. I never heard of the Grishaverse before so I didn't even realize that the Six of Crows were actually introduced in this tv series and it makes me want to read that book next. I still enjoyed watching the 8 episode first season the first time, but I watched it again after I read the book. It made A LOT more sense the second time around. Anyways, I HIGHLY recommend this book if you're into young adult fantasy. I also recommend the Netflix adaption of this because it's a fantastic first season. I am really hoping that there will be a second season and third season on Netflix that follows the 2nd and 3rd books.

It took me a while to actually read this series due to all the mixed reviews I've read about it, but I am so glad that I finally decided to read it. I loved it! There were definitely some things about the book I wasn't a huge fan of, but there were many more that I absolutely loved. I read Six of Crows and Crooked Kingdom first, so I was slightly aware of the world I was diving into. Leigh Bardugo was able to create an entirely new magic system that just truly draws you in, all while building a world around it. Since I had read Six of Crows I was already given a glimpse into what the Grisha were and what they could do, but this book goes so much further into it. I was able to follow what each "type" of Grisha was able to do, and how they learn to do everything. I've seen a lot of reviews saying that Bardugo didn't make a good representation of Russia, but let me be honest, I don't know diddly squat about Russia so I couldn't be the one to say that. Coupled with the fact that this is a fantasy world, she can literally make it whatever she wants. Now I have to say that I went into this series knowing that it was a "chosen one" trope mixed with a love triangle, and I am not usually a big fan. It's just not my usually cup of tea. But I was able to keep reading without letting that impact how I felt about everything else. I think it was just easier knowing what I was getting myself into. A younger version of me would have absolutely loved both of these tropes with everything in me. Which is perfectly okay, this is a YA book series so who am I to really complain. Alina is our chosen one. The orphan. The ordinary girl who's silently in love with her childhood best friend who somehow doesn't have a clue. That is, he doesn't have a clue until she becomes "special". Again, not one of my favorite tropes. After something threatens her life (and others around her) it is revealed that she is a Sun Summoner, who would be able to change the fate of all of Ravka. Alina is rather naïve about most things in the beginning of the book, but that made her more relatable and gave us (the readers) a chance to learn more about everything going on around her. I also have to say that she was quite funny! Overall I liked this book. I was able to read it within 24 hours. I didn't want to put it down. It was a little all over the place with the pacing, but that usually doesn't bother me at all. I can easily see myself rereading this and still enjoying it. The world building and magic system will always be what saved this book in my opinion. I would easily read anything that is within the Grishaverse. I did binge read this series in one weekend, so it is a little difficult for my brain to process what was within each book, my notes were not exactly all the helpful this time around.

Aaannnnddd I am hooked! Welcome to the Grishaverse, I maybe late on jump on, but it is worth it! I had heard mixed reviews (not sure how!) and I am so ready for the next story, I need to see what happens! Does the light battle the dark again? Can Alena do what is necessary? The writing was so good, and the audio book made me feel like I was right there watching and listening to all the conversations. I can see Volcra, and feel the Shadow Fold. But I also can feel the warm light. What comes next? I guess we will have to see. A five out of five for sure. 🦌🦌🦌🦌🦌

I ordered the hardcover copy of this book and I was really excited to see the beautiful cover art just to find a Netflix advertisement permanently attached to the cover. At first I thought it was a sticker but no. They printed a netflix advertisement for the adaptation of the book on the cover. I really care about keeping my books nice, especially when I like the cover art. No where in the product description does it warn that the cover art is marred like this.

Plain girl learns she's the chosen one. She goes into a magic school, has classes, deals with snobs. Becomes powerful and beautiful, but spends most of her time anguished over a love triangle. This is a rehash of many other books, nothing new here. It feels like half the book is about how people look, and only the beautiful people matter. Such a sad and stupid stereotype.

Set, and written, before the Six of Crows duology. If you’re going to read this trilogy, read it first or not at all. It’s not so much that Six of Crows spoils you for plot (though it does just a little) but more that Six of Crows will spoil you for richness of characters and depth of plot. Shadow & Bone just feels lacking in comparison - a little too plain, far too cliche, a little empty on characters, and far too short. Six of Crows simply sets reader expectations too high - better to start here and work your way forward with the author’s experience level. I won’t be buying the rest of this trilogy, but rather waiting for the author to write new works.

Ms. Bardugo really has a talent with storytelling mixed in with magic and humor. I love the universe she created with its Russian words, background, culture. The harshness of being an orphan, the luxuries of the Court all really come together in a rich fantasy oil painting. Not too much detail, not too much magic theory, not too much dread and despair. It was an easy read. That aside, I couldn't really like the characters. I thought I liked the diamond-in-the-rough heroine but she never really pulled through to get her act together until the very end of this novel. She was constantly being pushed, shoved, led by others. She was easily deceived, and deceived even herself. You would think that after all this time she would figure out who she was and what she wanted. She is no longer a child but she is constantly looking to others to give her the answers. The character development was really a mixed bag of "aha!" moments the author drops like candies on the floor. No real warning, just suddenly the heroine discovers why she's so brilliant (no pun intended), the hero suddenly decides he loves her, and the villain whom I was really cheering for went from a multi-dimensional puzzle box to a textbook villain with no soul. Ugh. Disappointment central. The ending wrapped up so quickly it literally took half a chapter and one afterward to wrap it up. One moment it was all confrontation tension, the next, a miraculous resolution because the heroine just figured it all out. The problem with the big reveal is that she never really cared about anything. Not her work. Not her co-workers. Not her life. Not even her health/appearance. She lived her entire life just numb; without hope or joy, just pining after a childhood friend. She obsessed about her childhood friend as if her universe revolved around him, and despite everything that happens to her and everything she's discovered about herself she still clings to him in the end even though we were supposed to believe she completely broke free of that mold many chapters ago. So she makes a choice, willing to sacrifice all else, including the friends she didn't think she could make and innocent people, to get her HEA. What makes her so different from the enemy, then? In the next book I'm supposed to believe she wants to fight a madman and save the country (she never really care for or fit in anywhere) and its people (she never really had any connection to)? Yeah, I'm thinking I'll just let her do that without me. I'm done Alina. Have fun with that. The novel was rather short, as well. I think all three could really be reduced to two books, but for the greed of the publisher, we're forced to pay a tall price three times. The first 70% of this book was decent, but I'll save my money and read something else.

This was brilliantly imaginative and the tenderly sweet scenes will steal your heart away!! This is the first that I've read from Ms. Bardugo and I have to say that I absolutely understand her fans enthusiasm! I loved the world building and the imagery. The story kept me wanting to know what would happen next. While Alina isn't super likable, she does possess other humanesque qualities that she's easy to understand. Mal is very interesting. He would follow Alina to the ends of the Earth. But didn't seem to realize how much she meant to him until it was almost too late. I think the Darkling is intriguing. I also believe that we haven't seen the full dynamic of his character. I think there is so much more to him, and I can't wait to see what he does next. I'm very much looking forward to being swept away by the rest of the series!

It feels like I’ve been waiting for a Shadow & Bone collector’s edition for a while. And it feels like I’ve been loving this tale, longer still. It is one of four stories I recommend with my “hand in fire” seal of approval. And I mean that, truly. If the one copy of this book was tossed into a randomly conjured vortex of fiery flames, I would reach in with both hands. There are zero amount of negative reviews that could change my opinion of it. And nothing strong enough to silence my praise for it, for Leigh, and yes—for my Darkling. Its words, so familiar they are to my lips. Its shadows, so known they are to my heart; I cannot imagine it not ever being so. 🖤

4.5 stars. SHADOW AND BONE is the first book in Leigh Bardugo's Shadow and Bone trilogy. I recently read another book of hers that takes place in the same "universe" as this one, so now I'm backtracking to get to the origins. ". . . You look like you're on your way to a really good dinner instead of possible death and dismemberment." So we have our people with supernatural/magical powers, called Grisha, and then your ordinary humans. What did surprise me is that here, the King pretty much used the Grisha as slaves, in my opinion. Honestly, that was a switch, when the Grisha have all the "power", and something that took a little getting used to. Our main character, Alina Starkov turns out to have a "hidden" ability, and when this is found our story really begins. ". . . I try to make a habit of getting things hopelessly wrong." I did enjoy this story and the characters immensely. As the first book in a trilogy, naturally this one has a lot of "groundwork" laying to set things up for the next couple of novels. Despite that, Bardugo managed to make the characters interesting, infused with sarcasm, and full of "personalities" of their own. ". . . The problem with wanting is that it makes us weak." I will definitely be reading the rest of the series. Highly recommended.

I LOVE this book and was so happy to find a book that was action packed with amazing characters but also included a love story. It's so RARE to find a book like this that's entertaining and doesn't have unnecessary parts in it that's inappropriate. It's really a book for any age and I really like that. I was introduced to this book through it's television adaption on Netflix. I had heard great things about author Leigh Bardugo because of the success of her Six of Crows book series. In the past, I tried reading Six of Crows, but just wasn't feeling it until I watched the shadow and bone tv show on Netflix. My advice is to read the Shadow and Bone book BEFORE watching it on Netflix. When I watched it on Netflix, I didn't understand the context and history of the characters. I never heard of the Grishaverse before so I didn't even realize that the Six of Crows were actually introduced in this tv series and it makes me want to read that book next. I still enjoyed watching the 8 episode first season the first time, but I watched it again after I read the book. It made A LOT more sense the second time around. Anyways, I HIGHLY recommend this book if you're into young adult fantasy. I also recommend the Netflix adaption of this because it's a fantastic first season. I am really hoping that there will be a second season and third season on Netflix that follows the 2nd and 3rd books.

It took me a while to actually read this series due to all the mixed reviews I've read about it, but I am so glad that I finally decided to read it. I loved it! There were definitely some things about the book I wasn't a huge fan of, but there were many more that I absolutely loved. I read Six of Crows and Crooked Kingdom first, so I was slightly aware of the world I was diving into. Leigh Bardugo was able to create an entirely new magic system that just truly draws you in, all while building a world around it. Since I had read Six of Crows I was already given a glimpse into what the Grisha were and what they could do, but this book goes so much further into it. I was able to follow what each "type" of Grisha was able to do, and how they learn to do everything. I've seen a lot of reviews saying that Bardugo didn't make a good representation of Russia, but let me be honest, I don't know diddly squat about Russia so I couldn't be the one to say that. Coupled with the fact that this is a fantasy world, she can literally make it whatever she wants. Now I have to say that I went into this series knowing that it was a "chosen one" trope mixed with a love triangle, and I am not usually a big fan. It's just not my usually cup of tea. But I was able to keep reading without letting that impact how I felt about everything else. I think it was just easier knowing what I was getting myself into. A younger version of me would have absolutely loved both of these tropes with everything in me. Which is perfectly okay, this is a YA book series so who am I to really complain. Alina is our chosen one. The orphan. The ordinary girl who's silently in love with her childhood best friend who somehow doesn't have a clue. That is, he doesn't have a clue until she becomes "special". Again, not one of my favorite tropes. After something threatens her life (and others around her) it is revealed that she is a Sun Summoner, who would be able to change the fate of all of Ravka. Alina is rather naïve about most things in the beginning of the book, but that made her more relatable and gave us (the readers) a chance to learn more about everything going on around her. I also have to say that she was quite funny! Overall I liked this book. I was able to read it within 24 hours. I didn't want to put it down. It was a little all over the place with the pacing, but that usually doesn't bother me at all. I can easily see myself rereading this and still enjoying it. The world building and magic system will always be what saved this book in my opinion. I would easily read anything that is within the Grishaverse. I did binge read this series in one weekend, so it is a little difficult for my brain to process what was within each book, my notes were not exactly all the helpful this time around.

Aaannnnddd I am hooked! Welcome to the Grishaverse, I maybe late on jump on, but it is worth it! I had heard mixed reviews (not sure how!) and I am so ready for the next story, I need to see what happens! Does the light battle the dark again? Can Alena do what is necessary? The writing was so good, and the audio book made me feel like I was right there watching and listening to all the conversations. I can see Volcra, and feel the Shadow Fold. But I also can feel the warm light. What comes next? I guess we will have to see. A five out of five for sure. 🦌🦌🦌🦌🦌

This is an affordable stunning edition, I love it. The pages are bordered, the paper its printed on is lovely, it has a map and there is a colour illustration at the beginning of the book. I love the gold and white of the sleeve and the black, gold foil and silver foil of the book. I am from the UK and have the UK collectors edition of SoC and CK and was going to purchase the matching S&B but I saw this US release and thought it was a hundred times prettier! Unfortunately, shipping to the UK was not an option so I sent this to my family in New Zealand who then posted on to me here...totally worth it though!

I really enjoyed this story. I can say that in the beginning of this story I didn’t like Mal. I thought he was a boring playboy and of course instantly attached my heart to the Darkling believing he was just a misunderstood Grisha. Boyyyyy was I wrong, even after everything he has done to Alina, Mal and Ravka in a whole i still love him. The plot moves along quite well and doesnt slow down or halt, and the character development was definetly there. Im glad that Alina didnt whine the whole time. Genya was one of my top favorite characters for sure, I don’t like what she had done but I understand why she did it. The need to belong and to be with David was to much. Even though the Darkling is kinda a prick I do think he longs for Alina, deep down May even have a connection with her. I hope he won’t be the villian throughout the entire trilogy but I don’t want Mal to die either. By the end of the first book Mal found his way into my heart. I don’t think Mal will truly every except or understand what it means to be a Grisha which I’m sure will no doubt hinder Alina and his relationship. Though i am sure Alina wouldnt say it out loud but the Darkling does spark her curiosity, and the one thing she needs to remeber is that.... Curiosity killed the cat. I am excited to continue reading the Grishaverse! Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Quotes “I’ve spent my life searching for a way to make things right. You’re the first glimmer of hope I’ve had in a long time.” ~ Darkling “I’ve been waiting for you a long time, Alina,” he said. “You and I are going to change the world.” ~ Darkling “Did you tell him, Alina? Does the boy know how willing you were to give yourself to me? Did you tell him what I showed you in the dark?” ~ Darkling You can tell I love the Darkling.

It had the bones of a good book, but it desperately needed fleshing out and maybe a reality check. The meat of the story was, hilariously, just a boarding school drama. Even though the Grisha are supposedly the King's most elite soldiers, apparently they don't have anything better to do but gossip about each other's clothes and about who's shagging who in between classes. Genya and the Darkling were the only remotely multifaceted/interesting characters. The others were just cardboard cutouts. Alina and Mal included. I liked Mal at first, and his unbreakable friendship with Alina that kept toeing the line to be something more. But then he disappears for most of the book and when he returns he's devolved into a bland and broody love interest. Alina's sole defining trait is her unfailingly low self esteem. Aside from that she's a blank slate While I can understand why low self esteem might be appropriate for the target audience and as the starting point for a coming of age story, it isn't something that's enjoyable for me to read personally. It's especially grating when that's the literal only glimmer of personality Alina had. The payoff at the end simply wasn't good enough to sit through her whining and second guessing all through the novel. Speaking of payoffs. I don't want to spoil anything but that has to be the cheapest handwavey loophole I've read in quite some time. There is *nothing* set up previously to support that or to suggest that Grisha magic works that way. All grumping aside I'll probably read the next one as well. It reads cleanly and doesn't take too much energy. It's nice mindless fluff if you need to wind down.

Shadow and Bone is full of fantasy and magic. It is mesmerizing, enchanting, and dangerous! Prepare to enter the rich, intriguing world of the Grisha. The Plot: As a child, Alina Starkov grew up an orphan. As an adult, she enlisted in the the first army as an ordinary cartographer. When a mission through The Fold (the terrifying darkness that created a rift between the kingdom of Ravka) turns deadly, Alina learns that she may not be an ordinary orphan after all. Alina's dormant power saves most of her crew, but comes at a price. She is whisked away to court to be trained as a Grisha, under the wing of the mysterious Darkling, and to live a life of luxury. But she soon finds out that the world of lavishness isn't what it seems. With an entire kingdom depending on her ability, and a growing darkness looming in the shadows, Alina must learn how to be a Grisha and confront their secrets. Well, my book group and I did this a little backwards. We read the Six of Crows duology first, and then decided to start the Grisha trilogy. Apparently it's not necessary to read the trilogy before the duology, but it's supposed to help familiarize readers with the world and the Grisha levels. With that being said, I absolutely loved Shadow and Bone! It was a bit of a slow burn, but it was fascinating and intriguing. Leigh Bardugo is quickly becoming my favorite authors because she has done an incredible job with world building and imagery. She has created this whole world that reads seamlessly, and has elegantly imagined an entire hierarchy of people and magic users. The plot to this book had a Harry Potter meets Phantom of the Opera feel to it. I won't give spoilers, so I won't say anymore on that, but for those who have read this one, comment below and let me know if that strikes anything with you. The plot twist was not as surprising as I would have liked it to be, but it was still entertaining and heart pounding. The story had a lyrical flow, and was full of enchantment, surprise, danger, and passion. I loved the interaction between the characters and enjoyed reading about Alina's training. Alina was an intriguing character to read. She started out as a weak girl with low self esteem and transformed in to a strong girl, ready to take on the world with an incredible ability. She was pretty hesitant about embracing her Grisha ability, but that seemed to fit her character. And, though she was most happy when she was with Mal, she paired quite well with the Darkling. The Darkling was a dark, devious character. He had a dangerous mystery to him, along with a bit of arrogance and intrigue. He definitely came off as a "Phantom" type character to me, and he was certainly the darkness to Alina's light. Genya was my favorite character. She was kind, caring, intelligent, and strikingly beautiful! I loved the bond she created with Alina and I hope to see more of her in the next 2 books. I am excited to read book 2 in the trilogy. The ending of this one was satisfactory enough to allow me time to buy book 2, but piqued my interest enough to want to jump in to it as soon as I get it! After having read the duology first, this one has already made things click and I absolutely loved learning more about the Grisha.

When I first heard of this series, I heard various vloggers rave about the series meanwhile 2 weeks later the various vloggers still hadn't reviewed or even read the series but raved of how good it was but hadn't read it. I was hesitant when it first came out so I waited and waited until one day I noticed that the trilogy had a paperback cover redesign and volume one ended up getting a beautiful blue cover design with the stag on cover that's when I decided to buy the paper back trilogy with the cover redesign. A simple cover redesign adds a lot to the overall imagination of the story and a story it was. I loved the whole world of grisha especially with the whole Russian background influencing the grisha world. How a simple choice as a child may or may have no changed her future depending how you look at it. It was interesting the story because it focused on the main lead who was not strong but wasn't weak either if anything more naive of the realities of the world but than as the story progress she got stronger in her own way and without spoilers the story developed nicely and I found myself reading chapters as fast as i can turn pages. The world building is excellent, characters well defined and they don't disappear in the background, the interplay between various set of characters made you feels as they would jump from the pages next to you. The story was great and I am looking forward to volume 2 and 3, great world building I love it

Coming off of her rampage of reading all of Sarah J. Maas books and then Jennifer Armentrout's From Blood and Ash books, the standards were definitely high and I was looking for an excellent read when I picked up this book. This book did not disappoint. Shadow and bone is A fast moving, twisting plot Comp!ete with enigmatic and alluring characters that pull you deep into the new world of Ravka. I read Through this book in just a couple of days - thrilling and phenomenal! I see what the hype was all about!

I love how Alina and Mal stayed friends throughout the years! It took me a little while to figure out the magic system but once I did I was enthralled in this world! I could see early on that I was shipping Alina and the Darkling! I love a morally grey character! I also wanted her with Mal though because childhood friends to lovers is one of my favorite tropes! I feel like they are soulmates with their light and dark powers but Mal and her would be so cute! I love the pacing of this book! There was never a dry spot! One of my favorite parts was when he wanted her to wear black! THE PLOT TWIST IN CHAPTER 15! IM SO SAD! From here everything hit the fan! My heart was crying from the deception and betrayal! I was not okay 😂 I loved the plot twist at the very end!

I got this book after watching the Netflix series to add details that I missed or under appreciated. It was a pleasant surprise that the book was just as enjoyable to read as the series was to watch. In some ways the series was eerie in how closely it followed the book. In others it diverged . In all ways, though, the book continued the truth that the book is always better than the adaptation (except Kubrick’s The Shining, of course). The feel of the author’s words on my mind was velveteen. Alina was alive and a three dimensional character whose actions were understandable. The glow of a blossoming love was beautiful. The other characters were complex and even those whose choices I disagreed with were sympathetic to a great degree. I’d hesitate to state that this was high fantasy but it sure was a good read.

This has been on my TBR list for quite a few years, so I'm glad the Netflix series pushed it to the top of my list! I most love the authors voice which indulges moments of young adult female angst but does Not dwell on the back and forth "OMG does he like me?" tropes That tend to abound in YA love triangles. I love the scientific Voice of The magic in this world building. The logic of powers created a world with so much realism rather than a hero's journey that relies purely on mysticism. Alina is a realistically round character that isn't overly saintly but more like a real, flawed person who has an incredible gift. This also contributes to the more realistic feeling of the world and characters rather than idolizing a perfect and selfless character. The twists and turns are beautifully executed, and I can't WAIT to read the next in the series!

I couldn't stop reading this. It was the best accidental purchase I've ever made. From the start, I was right there with Alina, hardcore crushing on the lifelong best friend who is completely oblivious and flirting with every other female in the area. I felt the same nervous anticipation she had at the thought of entering the Shadow Fold, who wouldn't? It's dark and creepy with monsters that like to munch and crunch on people. So when the inevitable happens during their journey through the Fold and the monsters attack, I wasn't surprised but eesh with the blood. After Alina and Mal survive their foray into the Fold, Alina is found to be a Grisha, a rare one at that. The head honcho whisks her away to the palace for training and lessons on how to work her skillset. With her move to palace life, she's surrounded by power-hungry court members and plots within plots within plots within plots. Alina doesn't know who to trust anymore, are her new friends actually her friends? Is Mal still a friend now that she's a member of the oft-times disliked Grishas? Can she help save the country? If you really want to know what happens, you should find a copy of Shadow and Bone and read what happens next!

Liked the Russian folklore influence as that is something I haven't read a lot about. The image of a sail powered skiff traveling a band of darkness filled with monsters to reach the sea is one that has stuck in my minds eye for quite a long time. I enjoyeded that the reason the main character didn't reveal her power when rested as a child was that she didn't want to leave her only friend. Wish her and Mal had maybe stayed friends rather than developing into love interests. I did like the twist that the Older magical character didn't pay special attention to the main character out of a romantic interest but to betray her and use her magical powers.

I love the show on Netflix and as I wait for season two to come out I thought I'd read through the entire book series (there are 7 books thus far in the GreishaVerse). I loved this first book and so did my best friend. This book is different than the show in that it only focuses on Alina's journey. It's still exciting and great reading - but I admit this is one of those rare cases where the show is a bit better. I love/prefer stories where you jump between different characters and their individual journeys as they work toward intersecting with one another. The show does that beautifully but this book is primarily just Alina's journey. It's still an absolutely fantastic read and I'm already well into book two.

I somehow passed over this series and only turned to it when the first Netflix season dropped. Several liberties have been taken by Netflix in altering small details from the book. But this isn’t one of those instances where the book is leagues better than what appears on screen. Bardugo should be pleased by the masterful way her story has been captured. Still, the books—that, at first glimpse, seem like more of the same tired YA fiction with a strong female lead—are a hopeful beam of light, as illuminating as it is unpredictable. Each plot twist surprised and delighted me, a seasoned and possibly jaded reader. And while I wait fir the next Season on Netflix, I’ll go-all-volcra and devour the other two books in the trilogy.

What a wild ride! Honest to say, I loved this book from start to finish. I feel like should have read this book sooner as it was exactly the kind of book I'd been wanting to read! Just amazing. First off, this fantasy world is pretty bleak. And Russian. Right down the middle of the land Ravka is a darkness Fold, or the Unsea. In it is pure darkness and monsters, created hundreds of years ago by a power hungry past Darkling, or commander of the Grisha and second only to the king. Which while bad for the people in this kingdom, was pretty good for me. I enjoyed the Russian elements as well, as that isn't something I see often in fantasy. The magical users called the Grisha, all have different types of powers, like summoners of wind, fire, water, and darkness (and light!). Healers and also Grisha who could even stop your heart in your chest. I really liked the different tiers of Grisha and their place in the military. Most of all though, I loved the characters. The Darkling! Wow! Literally the most interesting and badass character I have come across in YA fantasy. No spoilers but that plot twist blew me away because like the main character, I didn't want to see it either. But it was also pretty great. I adored the main character Alina, and her best friend/love Mal. The journey of Alina at the beginning to the end was great, her rise from frail and weak to a powerhouse willing to do what needed to be done, even though hard. I loved her voice mainly, I only found her to think silly things a few times but when she was told how certain things were, she didn't sit around and wait. She took action and tried to save pretty much everyone and I admired that. Also Mal and Alina. Hey, I ship it. Please keep that going! I'll be eagerly awaiting until I can get my hands on the sequels, I just really need more of this world. Right to my favorites shelf it goes!

This was brilliantly imaginative and the tenderly sweet scenes will steal your heart away!! This is the first that I've read from Ms. Bardugo and I have to say that I absolutely understand her fans enthusiasm! I loved the world building and the imagery. The story kept me wanting to know what would happen next. While Alina isn't super likable, she does possess other humanesque qualities that she's easy to understand. Mal is very interesting. He would follow Alina to the ends of the Earth. But didn't seem to realize how much she meant to him until it was almost too late. I think the Darkling is intriguing. I also believe that we haven't seen the full dynamic of his character. I think there is so much more to him, and I can't wait to see what he does next. I'm very much looking forward to being swept away by the rest of the series!

I literally did not get any sleep last night because I started this book and could not put it down. The author has a talent for describing scenarios that make you feel like you're watching a movie but without making it boring and too extensive. I heard about this trilogy because of the new Netflix show and wanted to read it before it came out. I love a great and formidable heroine, and Alina is growing into just that. Her and Mal have a very strong bond of friendship and I can wait to read more about them. If you're looking for a pure romance book, this is not it. This has intrigue, action, mystery with a hint of romance -which make it all the better. Definitely a must if you liked Hunger Games or Divergent

It’s a fairly common premise for a fantasy book these days – a character from an obscure background who suddenly finds she has a marvelous ability that might just save her country. But in the execution, it is not common at all. In the kingdom of Ravka, there are people called Grisha who have various kinds of special abilities. Some can make magical items. Some can summon storms or fire. And some can cause your death with just a thought. The most powerful of them is called the Darkling. He can summon darkness in the midst of light. He is also an amplifier – meaning he can strengthen the powers of another Grisha by touching them. And he can kill people using a band of darkness to slice them in two. Alina Starkov and Malyen Oretsev are orphans. When they reach a certain age, some people come to the castle that is their orphanage to test them for Grisha abilities. Alina knows she is somehow different, but when she is tested, she suppresses her ability because she doesn’t want to be separated from Mal, her only friend in the world. When they come of age, both of them join the army. Mal is a tracker, and Alina is a mapmaker. Their unit of the army is sent to cross the Fold – an area of extreme darkness peopled by monsters that separates the coastal area of Ravka from its heartland. Because animals are unsuited to travel through the darkness of the Foldl, they are to travel in a sandskiff – like a boat, only they travel on sled runners. Storm Summoners conjure winds to move the sandskiff forward, and all kinds of other Grisha are waiting around in case their abilities are needed. Sure enough, the monsters attack. They take one of Alina’s fellow mapmakers and injure Mal and Alina. When Alina is convinced the monsters are about to kill her and Mal, the world goes white, and she passes out. The next thing she knows, they are coming back out of the Fold again – on the same side where they entered, and the Grisha are treating Alina as if she were a prisoner. She is promptly taken before the Darkling, who informs her that she is a Sun-Summoner and takes her to the capital for training, ostensibly so that she can help him remove the Fold.

I enjoyed this book for a number of reasons. It was fresh with new ideas on magic and how it was manifested in the culture. It built relationships between characters well enough without getting too bogged down in trivial details which kept the story moving. Relationships were kept clean so no vulgar descriptions of meaningless sex or other perversions. It uses the classic reluctant hero and villain scenario which always works to keep the story interesting. I look forward to reading the next book in the series as the story is not complicated to follow and fun to read.

Okay this is the first book by Leigh Bardugo that I’ve read and holy cow why have I put this off for so long??!! I’ve heard such rave reviews of Leigh’s Six of Crows duology as well as the Grisha trilogy so when I saw this book was only 4 dollars on amazon it was too good of a deal to pass up! I always get nervous reading books that are so hyped up because I don’t want to be let down if I end up not liking them, but thankfully this book is well worth the hype! This was a truly excellent read and I couldn’t put it down. This novel has everything: well-developed characters, an impeccably built world, perfect pace, and an exceptional plot twist that shooketh me-shooketh to my very core😨 Alina is so relatable as our main character. She is witty, a bit naive, and flawed and just wants to find a place where she truly belongs. Mal (aw, Mal) is sweet, resilient, and a typically oblivious boy at times. And the Darkling, oh lordy, is well-dark😝 and you love to hate him. Ooh there’s just something about a bad boy 🤷 I ordered book #2 almost as soon as I started reading this because I knew I was going to love it. I very much recommend this! Yay for Leigh Bardugo! I can’t wait to read the Six of Crows duology next( yes I know I can’t believe I haven’t read that yet either🙈)

This book was simply amazing. I think I am in love Leigh Bardugo. I thought I might be in a bit of a book funk,but picked this bad boy up and was sucked right into this amazing world. First off I have to say Leigh Bardugo knows how to write. She pulled me into this world, this setting and into the struggle of Alina. I almost feel like it was a honor to be able to read her book. The one thing I loved about this book was the seamless world building. Usually in fantasy type books, the world building can be clunky and a little cumbersome, but I felt that she wove it in with the story. That you learned and explored this world based on the actions and journey of the characters. The story centers around Alina, an orphan who has felt like she has never belong and the only thing that kept her feeling completely alone was her best friend, Mal. However Alina and Mal are no longer children and she finds herself losing the one thing she never thought possible. Alina was such a complex character. She is a survivor. She has never let her circumstances beat her down, but it doesn't mean it did leave a mark. While Alina can be strong, at her core of her being she is a little girl who is feels alone, with no sense of belonging. When it is revealed that she is a sun summoner (a rare gift) her world is turned upside down and begins to feel like she finally has a place in the world. Alina life is forever changed when she comes into contact with The Darkling. He is the most powerful being in all the country. He is such an enigma and it almost feels like Alina and him are completed in each other. Like two halves of the same coin. However, Alina soon learns that Darkling is not all he appears to be and there could be an enormous cost to belong to him. As Alina learns to navigate this new world, she is taught that not everyone can be trusted, including herself.

The land of Ravka is ravaged by war, split in half by the deadly "Fold" filled with darkness and blood thirsty creatures. A group of powerful (in more ways than one) individuals serve under the king, gifted with various talents and attributes (ability to summon and manipulate fire, wind, water, the ability to heal and kill, etc) called Grisha. Children are tested for abilities that signify them as Grisha from a young age, and subsequently sent to Os Alta to be trained and put to use for the king. Privileged and esteemed members of society. Alina Starkov grew up an orphan, taken in by a Duke with a big heart who ran an orphanage, she was always a mousy little girl who no one really bothered to remember, nothing special. With only her best friend Mal by her side, she didn't really need much, content with her life and the comfort of her best friend. Fast forward some years and Alina is now a mapmaker, serving the king in the First Army alongside Mal, who has grown to be the most talented tracker in the Army (and not so hard on the eyes either). After a deadly trip into the Fold, Alina has discovered a power inside of herself that she never knew was there, a power that takes her on a whirlwind trip to Os Alta, away from Mal, into the Grisha World. Here she must hone her powers under the guidance of The Darkling, the most powerful Grisha of all (also not so bad looking- see where I'm going with this?), while trying to determine her place within this new world, who is on her side, and who isn't. Can she shoulder the responsibility thrust upon her to destroy the Fold with her newly awakened powers? I seriously loved this book. Not only does Leigh create an insanely imaginative fictional world in Ravka but the plot line is stellar. There was never a dull moment, no filler or fluff here. Every single thing she writes sets the reader up for the storyline, small details weaving themselves back into the story. The attention to detail in her writing really brings to life her literary world, from the decadent architecture and lavishness of Os Alta, to the bleak darkness of the Fold, she captures the readers imagination from page one. Alinas character development is very well paced and appropriate as she journeys through her training in Os Alta. I really liked her spark of rebellion and sass coupled with her humility and uncertainty. The Darkling is such an interesting character, he's probably the one I'm looking forward to the most when I pick up the second book (like, as soon as I finish writing this review). Mal is so loveable and brave. The evolution of his relationship with Alina was exciting and endearing to watch unfold and develop more. Full of suspense, action, and thrills this is a book you can't put down!

I was a little blindsided by this book. Honestly, at first I had a little trouble getting sucked into it {books that seem to just be about fantasy war don't tend to hold my attention}. However, I needed a break between a a couple books in the same genre, and this was the only one I had with me on vacation. Plus, I was doing a read-along with a group of bookstagrammers, so I thought it would be the perfect time to give this trilogy a try. I'm so, so glad I joined that read-along! Alina is very much what you would imagine an impoverished apprentice mapmaker might be like. Skinny, dark circles under her eyes, and none of the boys or men she travels with give her a second look, especially her friend Mal, whom she's loved almost as long as they've known each other. But they're ripped apart when a power she doesn't even know she has comes roaring to life. Taken to the Darkling and to be trained in the Grisha ways, Alina finds herself floundering in this unknown world, with few friends and many enemies. Leigh Bardugo has an amazing writing style and it seems like a knack for getting the reader to become entirely immersed in the worlds she creates. It did take me a little bit to get into the book, but once I did, I was hooked! I needed to know more about Alina, how her power worked, who the Darkling even is {that is a whole can of worms that is barely even opened yet} and what the bleep was going to happen. This books leaves the reader with more questions than answers, but I guess that's okay considering it's the first in a trilogy. I can't wait to get my hands on the next one!

This doesn't coontain spoilers Excellent! Couldn't put it down. I ended up reading it in one sitting. Was never boring & character s were well developed. I have read & re-read parts of it Great escape has romance, danger & supernatural powers It doesn't disapoint. Not only does she do a great job of describing people & places w/out including uneccesary detail. I usually perfer narrative over dialouge but I found the dialogue to be enjoable & not only did I look forward to it at times I found myself laughing at a witty sarcastic remarks. Doesnt have sex or consrant violence. Plan to share with my 12year-old. Nice to have books both adults & YA can enjoy. It is not deep but it is a good story that I will probably re-read in the future If it helps other books in this genere I also enjoyed Divergent trilogy, Hunger Games. The Elite trilogy, Legend trilogy, The Books of the Beggining, Twilight trilogy, The Host

We start the book with a chapter of history about two young orphan children. I knew this was going to be good by the opening chapter how the Author starts us off and weaves the story is magical. Aline is the main character in this adventure. I liked her right away, even her young self. She goes from orphan to soldier to sommoner. The girl has been busy. I love her she speaks her mind, blunt, but knows how to hold her words in. An all-round smart girl when it comes to some things. Mel is the next character. Orphan.Soldier.Deserter. Mel and Aline grew up together joined the army together. And of course, one loved the other more than friendship. This scared me, I thought the whole book would be about the other wanting the friend who just wants to be a friend. Nope so not the case. The Darkling. He is a mystery that we learn more about through the whole story. My fav. I do hope Aline ends up with me, but hey I like an underdog or the bad boy. I would like to think that if Aline didn't listen to the old women the story would end up differently. Throughout the story, certain things showed the Darkling really cared for her and if she only trusted him, he wouldn't have collored her. All around this book is by far one of the best Epic Fantasy's I've read in a long time. It moves fast never a dull moment. No information overload. It's full of suspense, a little romance and lies, and truths. Everything unfolds well to give you an amazing read.

There are very few books that I can finish in less than 24 hours. And while this book is not a hard to read, small texted, long book, I found it just fascinating and really interesting. Now this book did remind me a little bit of the Shatter Me series, but where this stands apart of Taheri Mafi's trilogy is the world building. Gosh...was the world building great! I really was able to immerse myself into the land of Ravka and wanted more after I read the final pages of this installment. In this novel, we follow Alina, a 16 (I believe this is her age, the author never really goes into how old she is) year old map maker in the land of Ravka, an alternative, fictional Russia. In Ravka, the land is divided mainly into two parts...East and West. Separated by a dark and mysterious untouchable area of the land called the Shadow Fold. Our main characters live on the East side of Ravka, and because the East side is land locked and also surrounded by enemies (the Shu Han and the Fjerda), it is the army's task to go into the Shadow Fold to reach the West side for supplies and food. Not too far into the novel, our main characters Alina and her childhood friend Mal, along with other army members, go into the Shadow Fold and something happens where Alina realizes she possess a power she didn't even know she had. And this is where our story begins. I won't go too much into it because I'll start spoiling but I did want to talk about the characters. Alina is a great female MC. To me, she wasn't whiney and was very likeable. She was perplexed about her power at first but I believe she soon began to embrace it. She truly believed the Darkling's cause and really felt like she could be the one to save her country. I also enjoyed her friendship with Genya. It's always nice to have a female MC have an endearing female friendship rather than focusing all their time on boys. Mal is the boy Alina's been in love with since who knows when. Mal, at first, saw Alina only as a little sister but you know a deeper relationship is going to develop. I wanted to like Mal more than I did in this book, but to me, he felt too ordinary. I hope to find out more about him as the series continues so I can give a bigger opinion of him. OK so is it weird that I actually like the Darkling and as much as I think it's not a good thing, I do ship him and Alina. Eeek! That's right, I said it! He's evil but I'd really like to find out what's behind his evilness. I don't think Leigh Bardugo set out to make a character like him without giving us a back story so I'm just waiting for that. Alina feels this pull towards him and I love how he amplifies Alina's powers. And in this book, the more Alina uses her powers, the more beautiful she becomes. And seeing how he amplifies it, it has to say a lot more than what this book is telling me right? Right??? I am so excited to pick up the second installment and I've already ordered the final installment on Amazon. So looking forward to June! These books don't really come by often in the YA genre. A book that's well written, a world deeply built out, a female MC that's bada**, a villain that's multi-layered, and a plot that's riveting. Awesome!

Honestly, I love the: Person has no known powers, to actually is very powerful and those powers could save to world; troupes. That's exactly what this book is. Alina's power makes itself known in a big way by saving her best friend and her regiment from a painful death at the hands of flesh eating monsters. Her power is so rare she is the only known person to currently have them, and they just may be what the world needs to save them all. But first, she must learn how to use them. That's a lot easier said then done. Can I just say that I love the Darkling?? ;)

I'm a sucker for a great new fantasy world, so I've no idea why I waited so long to get into the Grisha Trilogy. Seriously, you would think it would be a complete no brainer for me to pick these books up and devour them, but I've long had a standing "I want you but not enough to buy you" relationship with Shadow and Bone, the first of Bardugo's highly celebrated trilogy. For some reason there has just always been some other book getting in the way of my purchasing this one, and it was only after receiving the first one for Christmas (courtesy of my amazing husband) that I dived in head-first and now already own the entire trilogy (I'm just about halfway through book 2 already). This book certainly lives up to the hype! It's full of everything I love about the fantasy genre - magic, high stakes, romance, and plenty of dark secrets, court intrigue, and unreliable characters. It was delightful from the very first page (I especially enjoyed the flashbacks scenes and the refreshing switch from first person to third), and I loved the Russian mythology imagery. We see so much of Medieval or Renaissance Europe in fantasy that it's the best change of pace to get to experience a setting that's still recognizable and historical, but isn't just like everything else out on the market today. Russia has such a strong mythology and interesting history, and I love Bardugo's choice to implant her story in a land that strongly resembles Tzarist Russia, complete with a super creepy Rasputin character and everything. This was a delightfully twisty-turny narrative, and I'm expecting great things from the next two books. Definitely not one you'll want to put down!

Originally reviewed at http://www.shaelit.com/2012/07/review-shadow-and-bone-by-leigh-bardugo/ The beginning bit is a third-person narration describing “the girl” and “the boy,” two orphans and best friends. In the next chapter, we leap ahead and settle about a decade later where we learn that “the girl” is Alina and “the boy” is Mal. They’ve stuck together all this time and now are in the army, where Mal is a soldier and Alina is a cartographer, though admittedly not a very good cartographer. Their friendship is important, because it’s the catalyst for the first Big Event in the book. The group they’re traveling with must venture into the Shadow Fold, also called the Unsea (what a name, huh? I love it.). Once inside, they’re attacked by the volcra, the nasty, flesh-eating flying things that are the sole residents of the Fold. I’m not spoiling anything here, because right there in the description it says that Mal is “brutally injured” and that that’s when Alina reveals her “dormant power.” She’s taken away from Mal, her cartography work, and everything she’s ever known to live in the capital city of Os Alta to train as a Grisha, Bardugo’s version of a sort of wizard/scientist. Usually, I’d write something like “and that’s where the fun begins,” but this book really was fun from start to finish. I loved feeling out the dynamics of Alina and Mal’s relationship in the beginning. Mal is strong and caring and Alina has the biggest crush on him, but he sees her as nothing more than a friend. Really, they tend to treat each other more as brother and sister, which makes for some wonderful banter. Also in the beginning is where we’re allowed to settle into this Russia-esque world. In my opinion, the language is the best part. Ms. Bardugo explained in an interview that she was careful not to use straight-up Russian words, as Ravka isn’t Russia. Instead, she chose Russian sounds and Russian suffixes and mixed them with English words to create nouns that sounded Russian but could still be understood by the layman without knowing a stitch of Russian. One example she gave is that instead of saying m’lord, everyone addresses the Darkling as moi soverennyi, giving the word an authentic Russian sound while still sounding close to the English root of “sovereign.” Speaking of the Darkling… Hoo, buddy. This is Bardugo’s sendup for all the good girls wanting baaaad boys. He’s tall, dark, and has everyone around him simultaneously shaking and fear and wanting desperately to please him (and not just because they don’t want their lips sewn shut). Yet he and Alina get each other. They’re both the only Grisha of their kind (he’s a living amplifier and she’s a Sun Summoner – don’t worry, you’ll understand when you read the book), so they both feel like outsiders. Add the fact that Alina has always been a nobody and now she’s a really big Somebody, and you can see how she starts falling hard for the Darkling. (Minor confession: Whenever I read the title Darkling, I think of those delightful talking bits of goo from Tamora Pierce’s Trickster’s Choice and Trickster’s Queen. Really, you’d enjoy them. They’re like happy, mouthy bits of Morph from Treasure Planet.) Oh, uh, did I mention there’s a love triangle in this book? Well, not really. See, Alina likes both the Darkling and Mal, but not at the same time, so it wasn’t nearly as frustrating as other similar situations are. At least, it wasn’t for me. Once we were introduced to both the Darkling and Mal, I picked my guy and stuck with him to the end (but none of that stupid Team So-And-So business). Alina makes a few mistakes thanks to one of the guys, but she isn’t stupid or flighty or maddening like some other girls (*cough*BellaandAmerica*cough*). Actually, I was proud of how she handled herself. I was also very proud of myself for sticking with my guy, because I was right in the end. And no, I won’t tell you whom I picked. The other characters were fun, though I didn’t feel like we got to know them as well. I liked Genya, Alina’s friend in the capital. Her tutors were a bit stereotypical (gruff barbarian for a fight instructor, sharp-tongued old lady for a magic instructor), but it was honestly a trial to pay attention to anyone else when I knew that at any moment the delicious Darkling could come strolling into the scene again. However, if I had to pick one minor character that I adored (and there always is one), I’d choose David, Genya’s crush. I honestly can’t really think of anything I didn’t like. I’ve gotten so used to reading dark, angsty books that this story felt a little light to me, but I’m certainly not complaining. Some bits felt a little lacking in action, but then I hit other parts like the one that made me tweet the following: All in all, it wasn’t a book that I finished and immediately wanted to shove a copy into the hands of every person I met (hi, Grave Mercy). On the other hand, it DID make it into the top five books on my birthday list, and that is a VERY hard list to crack. So I must stand and add my kudos to the long line now forming in front of Ms. Leigh Bardugo. Go read the book so you can join the line, too. Points Added For: RUSSIA!!!, a really awesome language, the Unsea (too many times the “forbidden section” is modeled off of Fangorn Forest, so a sea is really cool!), David (he’s so cute), Mal and Alina’s friendship, The Little Palace (what kind of awesome and totally realistic name is that?), framing Grisha stuff as more of a not-yet-understood science than magic. Points Subtracted For: Many unanswered questions (what meadow? wait, so what happens next? WHAT MEADOW?!), a kind of hokey thing involving mercy, not getting to meet fully rounded Grisha (David and Genya were the only two that came even close). Good For Fans Of: Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi (somewhat similar love triangle and stakes), bad boys, Russian-based worlds. Notes For Parents: One makeout scene, some scattered kissing, violence, some language (I’m trying to remember… I remember a couple a’s and an sob, but that’s all).

5 outstanding stars!!! One of the more original and fresh books I've read in a long time. Shadow and Bone is the story of two orphans, childhood friends, who only had each other in the world. Now semi-grown up (hence the young adult genre) Alina and Mal are traveling across their country when something happens that will change the course of their lives forever. "I pressed my forehead to Mal's and heard him whisper, 'I'll meet you in the meadow'." Alina is whisked into the world of the Grisha, where she meets the mystifying Darkling. Alina learns she contains the ability to save the world and to help her country win a war that has lasted for over a hundred years. She now has this grand new life presented to her, but Alina wishes to return to her old one with her best friend Mal. This new standing in life has Alina confused as to where she belongs, despite everyone around her insisting they know she is among the elite. "It would have placed you high above the others." "Well, I don't want to be high above all the others." The Darkling is a mystery to Alina, and she does not know what to think of him most of the time or understand his motivations. Despite this, the Darkling wants to and tried to gain Alina's trust. "You're the first glimmer of hope I've had in a long time." Not to spoil too much, but as could be guessed, not everything in Alina's new world is as great as it seems. The court at which she resides is full of secrets and lies, yet surprisingly Alina does not let this ward her off, but just withstands it (in my opinion). What I liked best was the development of Alina's character over time and how she began to understand she needed to unlock secrets and fears within herself to truly grow into what she needed to be. Alina went from being a timid sickly girl into someone who was strong and willing to work hard to obtain great things. Laced with wit and a little humor, Shadow and Bone is easily one of those books where I am mentally kicking myself for not having read it sooner. "Where did you learn to fight like that?" "Grisha training," I whispered dramatically. "Ancient secrets of the groin kick."

The Grisha Trilogy is one of the most fully-realized, exquisitely drawn fantasy series of recent times, and Shadow and Bone gets it off to an awesome start. Bardugo's writing can hold its own with that of Tanith Lee and Guy Gavriel Kay, not something I say lightly. I loved beautiful narrative language, the flashes of humor, the world building, which was very evocative of Imperial Russia, and the characters, who were all distinct and fully-realized, even those who only made appearances for a few paragraphs. The villain of the pieces is no paper tiger whose one-dimensional evil simply exists to be overcome by the good guys. There is reason behind his ruthlessness, and those who ignore his worst actions and support him, do so because they see those actions as the cost of winning a war, uniting the country, and creating a safe haven for a class of people, the Grisha, who are burned in some countries, enslaved in others, or killed and experimented on in yet other parts of the world. At the start of the story, orphaned, scrawny, self-effacing peasant solider Alina Starkov serves in the First Army. Her best friend, Malyen Oretsev, who grew up with her in the same orphanage, is serving there as well. Mal is everything Alina is not: handsome, charismatic, self-assured and easy going. He makes friends easily, she has trouble fitting in. He has a clear talent for his position as a Tracker, she is a barely adequate map-maker with the Cartographers. He is a magnet for the opposite sex. His friends only flirt with her when they get drunk and forget to call her "Sticks." She's hopelessly in love with him; he's oblivious. So far, so familiar, but Bardugo has a much more fascinating story to tell than how the wallflower blooms into a beauty and gets the attention of the love of her life. Although that happens, too. But the story is off and running in the first chapter, as the two soldiers are part of a mission into the Fold, a monster-haunted no-man's land of perpetual, impenetrable darkness that split their country of Ravka centuries ago. Things go wrong, their transport is attacked, Mal saves Alina, she saves him, but the attack is relentless. As Mal is on the point of dying and Alina is helpless to defend them from an incoming monster, her heartbreak turns to rage at the unfairness of it all, her inability to protect him...and suddenly the world explodes in light, scaring off the monsters, and driving Alina into unconsciousness. When she wakes, she's dragged before one of the kingdom's most powerful men, the Darkling, who is said to be descended from the very Black Heretic whose hunger for forbidden power caused him to create the Fold. Alina has no idea what happened in the Fold or who saved them, but everyone else seems to think she was the source of light. Impossible, as all Ravkan children are tested for Grisha powers in early childhood, including Mal and Alina in the prologue to the book. But as a character introduced in the second book will say, when people say impossible, they generally mean improbable. The Darkling, a living amplifier, is able to discover the unique power within Alina which the Grisha examiners missed. She is that rarest of Grisha, a Sun Summoner, whose abilities might be the key to destroying the Fold, reuniting Ravka, and defending the kingdom against its enemies. The minute this is discovered, Alina is tossed into the Darkling's own coach, surrounded by his most trusted guards, to be taken to safety, because now the spies and assassins of at least two kingdoms are going to be after her. She doesn't even get to say good-bye to Mal who is last seen (for a while) arguing with the Cartographers and looking after her helplessly. Alina doesn't believe she can really be a Grisha. Ravka's enemeies aren't taking any chances, and the coach is attacked. She's rescued by the Darkling, who in addition to being powerful, is also incredibly gorgeous, and naturally takes an interest in Alina the girl as well as Alina the Sun Summoner. She's whisked off to safety and the pampered life of a Grisha in the Little Palace, where she is supposed to learn how to use her skills. As ever, she has trouble fitting in, and, unsurprisingly, finds she can't summon the power everyone claims she has. But, it does finally come to her, and when it does, she blooms, physically as well as in other ways. When she sees Mal again, she's beautiful and celebrated. And wearing the Darkling's colors. Or, as Mal puts it: "He's all over you." But that's very far from being the main tension in the Mal/Alina/Darkling dynamic. This is no simple YA love triangle. There is far more going on here than is first apparent, and there is more to almost every main character than you realize when they are first introduced. All in all, I found the book compelling from the first sentence, and was devoutly grateful the next two books were available when I finished the first. I can't recommend this highly enough.

I had very high expectations for this book, because I have been waiting to read it for more than a year now. The reason for that is I try not to read trilogies or series without the last one being released. So I had to wait for Ruin and Rising to be out (it will be in two days) to start reading this one. It was a much anticipated book for me, because I had read Bardugo's "The too-clever fox" and "The witch of Duva" - short stories that I had really liked - and I was eager to see what she could do with a long series. Also because High Fantasy is my favorite kind of distopian story, and because the books I had read lately were less then great. And sometimes when you expect too much from something, it ruins it. But gladly this book exceeded my expectations in almost every way. It's a solid 4.8 out of 5 for me. Let me explain why: First of all, Bardugo's creativity astounds me! The ideas, plot twists and sheer magic of her writing is awe striking. On top of that, she crafts and molds her ideas into stories that are both believable, cohesive, beautifully spun and simply gripping. I couldn't put the book down! I was torn between greedily devouring it and savoring every moment of it slowly so it wouldn't end so fast. I ended up reading it in two days. Alina didn't seem to be a true heroin right away, but she quickly reveals herself to be strong, kind and stubborn (in the best way). Often the "reluctant hero" charade bores me and makes no sense for the story at hand, but this does make perfect sense for the story and her transformation is just right. I also loved how the love story is both intrinsically important and a side plot at the same time. As Alina struggles to find herself I was caught wondering who would she end up with. It was fun while it lasted, and lovely when she found it. Another part I thought was fun is all the lavish luxuries in Alina's new life. The descriptions are gorgeous and I felt like I was a Grisha myself. The Darkling is another part of that delighted me. He is the ultimate bad boy - handsome, mysterious and completely charming. I'm not the bad-boy kind of person, but this one swooned me. I loved how Alina is glamoured by all of it, but at the same time, she isn't easily fooled either. And Mal, and Genia, and Ivan - really all of them - were so alive. They were all multidimensional characters, independent and cohesive at the same time. I could empathize with them all, understand them, root for or against them with ease. The only (tiny) thing could criticize is how Alina is sometimes overtly hard on herself. Alina's unwillingness to trust herself, believe in her power, or give herself credit is sometimes unnerving. But, at the same time, is is completely coherent with the story and it does make a good contrast for when she finally comes to herself. So, there is no real harm done by it, in my opinion. If we are sincere, don't we do that to ourselves as well, from time to time? I would recommend this book for any fans of High Fantasy, no matter how old you are. This is a coming of age story, but it's also so much more. I loved it!

Alina Starkov is sent away after saving her best friend (secret crush), Mal from dying. She is the special Sun Summoner that will help save her kingdom from the evil monsters with wings. Now Alina has to start a new life as a powerful Grisha that she has absolutely no way of knowing how to control. Along the way, she learns how to grow as a person, forget her past, and begins a dangerous but oh so seductive relationship with the Darkling. Not everything is as it seems in the Grisha world, and Alina comes to a heart breaking conclusion on what she has to do. There was plenty of action in this book, starting right from the beginning with the horrific monsters. Lots of fighting scenes too through out the book! The middle part slows down a little, but it in no way stops the story from getting dull. There isn't that much romance in this book. Though the chemistry between Alina and The Darkling is undeniably steamy! He is sooo hot and mysterious...why does he have to be bad?!?! I felt they had more of a connection than Alina did with Mal. He's a charming guy too in his own way, but I felt they had more of a puppy love connection. Maybe that will change for me in book two, and also maybe the Darkling will become good?! After all, it looks like he has small soft spot for Alina, no? Wishful thinking I know. Overall, it was a spectacular start to the series. I was engrossed with the book from the beginning, to the nerve wracking ending! Alina was a strong, sarcastic, and independent character. She never let anyone get to her (especially the snotty little witch), and she always followed her own heart whether she liked it or not. I also enjoyed the new friendship Alina made with Genya. I just hope they don't become enemies. This was an awesome book that I highly recommend. It's different from other YA books out there too! I can't wait to read the sequel, Siege and Storm, to see if my feelings change between Alina and Mal.

Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo is the start of the Grisha Trilogy about two orphans, Alina and Mal. Alina and Mal are being interviewed by Grisha as children, then the story jumps ahead to their young adulthood. Mal is a tracker in the army and Alina is an assistant to a cartographer. The army is crossing The Fold, a place where monsters called Volcra live. Volcra attack and Mal and Alina protect each other. As the Volcra claw at her back, Alina lights up. She's suspected of being a Sun Summoner and people will want her to light up The Fold so traveling can be safer and ports can be used once again. The Darkling takes Alina to Os Alta for her safety, her training and to serve the kingdom. Alina feels like she doesn't fit into this life any better than her last dwelling and job as a mapmaker. She hasn't seen Mal since she was taken to the palace. Alina has a revelation as a forgotten memory resurfaces. Alina's power comes forth and as her power grows, it becomes easier for her to call upon and she learns who she can and cannot trust and who she truly loves. I like how the author has woven Russia into the story. Leigh Bardugo is an impressive author and her debut novel, Shadow and Bone, brought anxiety to my mind and tears to my eyes - 5 stars!

So I finally read Leigh Bardugo's Shadow and Bone. What better time then when the trilogy is finished! That way there's none of that pesky waiting in between books! And I have to say I found it quite fascinating! Shadow and Bone is definitely a fantasy kind of read filled with magic and monsters and of course a heroine with a hero or two along the way. Perhaps the most difficult thing for me to comprehend in the story was all the statuses the Grisha hand and what their powers were. There are a lot of strange names in this one, but that's always a given with fantasies. Country names were even odd to read and knowing the geography of the world was a bit confusing at times too. But as always, I just rolled with it and the enjoyment of the story took its hold on me! Alina and Mal have been practically inseparable since they were children, both orphans and just trying to make their way in life. Mal is a solider and Alina is a mapmaker and naturally, Alina has been crushing on Mal for years, but Mal rarely sees her in that light. Then one day, they along with a group of their soldiers are sent on a journey for trade or something like that, but it involved passing through the Fold. And this my friends is where the monsters live. When an attack ensues from the monsters there's chaos and panic and Mal is hurt and something unleashes in Alina that saves his life but exposes a hidden power within her and now she finds herself in front of the Darkling. The Darkling proceeds to take Alina under his wing and into the Grisha fold. She has a lot to learn. The Darkling as you can probably tell from his name, is a powerful figure. He's kinda scary at times too, but yet he's kind to Alina. He talks to her on their journey and treats her respectively. He's nothing at all what she expected. And wow, can we just say how awesome the Darkling was. And his title, so mysterious. Alina is your typical shy, meek powerless kind of girl who comes into her own. I love that transformation, no matter how many times we see it. It's just remarkable and each author makes that transformation their own and Bardugo is no different. Alina starts growing closer to the Darkling and I sensed that dreaded love triangle springing up since she's always crushed on Mal. And this definitely falls under the love complication even though it's still just Alina and two guys. Things take a drastic turn when Alina learns that the Darkling has been keeping secrets from her and that's when the danger really antes up in the story. Prior to it was more of the learning experience kind. I love the characters in this this one. The Darkling for his mysterious qualities. Alina for being a likable heroine. Alina also makes a new friend, Genya who was a delight! She was like a gossipy teenager just thrown into a different time. Mal, for the little we see him was great too and I have a feeling I will just continue to grow feelings for these characters in the next book. The ending, naturally, was heart-pounding. It was very intense as more events began to unfold and Alina realizes a thing or two. And this is only book 1! I was left shocked at these developments because I really didn't see them coming! But I feel like there has to be more to the story (besides there being 2 more books) and I can't really explain my feelings for spoiler purposes either. Just that I feel like there's definitely going to be a few more realizations to come and I can't wait! Now onto book 2! Overall Rating 4.5/5 stars

I loved the setting of this book--an embattled kingdom inspired by imperial Russia with the noteworthy addition of magic--as much as I enjoyed its story. While Alina Starkov is serving as an apprentice map maker in the army a deadly battlefield encounter on the monster-filled Shadow Fold forces out her dormant magical powers and brings her to the attention of the Tsar. Almost immediately Alina finds herself propelled into the opulent, demanding world of the Grisha, magicians trained from an early age to serve their country. Alina is used to hard work, but in contrast to most Grisha she grew up an orphan peasant girl, living dormitory style with other war-stranded children on the estate of a charitable duke. Since her schooling in magic is starting much later than her Grisha peers, Alina has trouble fitting into their elite and cliquish group. Other issues include the corruption and incompetence of the royal family, the impassible zone of magic-made monsters that bisects and divides the country, the difficulty of knowing who to trust or believe, and the fact that Alina is expected to help save her country with a flashy magical power she can't control. Plus there are boy problems, but these are at least as poignant as they are predictable. Alina is a great POV character, contemplative but not a pushover, willing to jump into hopeless danger to try to save a friend, and full of slightly barbed but disarmingly candid comebacks. I wanted to read myself into a well imagined alternate domain, and Leigh Bardugo's world conjuring skills were everything I hoped for. Between this book and Rachel Hartman's Shadow Scale I've discovered I love a story with maps. Shadow and Bone is the first of a trilogy and (Oh happy day!) all three books are already published so there need be no waiting if you get caught up. Plus the covers are wonderful.

SHADOW AND BONE is set in a land called Ravka which is under siege from a menacing darkness filled with monsters that is slowly overtaking it. The magical elite known as The Grisha whom are ruled by the enigmatic leader The Darkling are the only people capable of keeping the Shadow Fold at bay. When a young orphan called Alina and her best friend Mal who serve in one of the army's many regiments are attacked, Alina reveals a long dormant power which may be the key to defeating the Shadow Fold. Taken under the wing of the Darkling, Alina joins the Grisha but soon learns that all that glitters is not gold. I loved Alina's character, she was so relatable and I immediately connected with her. When she's taken from all that she knows and dropped into the lavish, privileged world of the Grisha, you get a real sense of her vulnerability but also her inner strength and the steely nature that is unearthed as she gains confidence and trust in her power. At times I admit I did get quite the "Bella" vibe off her as she did the usual YA heroine handwringing as to why people thought she was beautiful and special and oh my were attracted to her. Despite this she remained intensely likeable and Bardugo didn't focus on the over-used trope. Let's talk about The Darkling. So utterly charismatic, mysterious and oozing power, his interest in Alina is almost addictively seductive to read and despite his anti-hero status I couldn't help but fall for him. Despite this I am firmly on the good ship Malina and have many life buoys ready for what I anticipate to be a rocky sailing. I have a definite soft spot for Mal whose sweet nature and friendliness make him instantly likeable. I love the chemistry and tension between Mal and Alina, how well they know each other, every moment is weighted with their history and deep knowledge of each other's strengths and weaknesses. The world building was stellar for me, I loved the Russian influence and Bardugo's beautiful, effortless style of writing that makes it so easy to get swept away in the story. The complex hierarchy of the Grisha and their history is another highlight and I am eager to learn more. Never once did I feel like the pacing faltered and the last third was especially intense and wonderfully played out through skilful story-telling and heightened emotion. Mesmerising, sultry and utterly captivating, SHADOW AND BONE is simply fantastic and I cannot recommend it highly enough.

When I was done reading this book I could only think of ONE thing, WHY DID I WAIT SO LONG TO READ THIS!!! I was absolutely captivated by this book! It was so different then anything I ever read, but so utterly amazing!!! I've always heard great things about Shadow & Bone, but for some crazy reason, I put other books in front if it, ( Why, I Don't Know)! But I really, really, wish I would of picked this up sooner, because I was defentely missing out! Shadow & Bone was defentely different then any of my other reads, but that's what really made it stand out, and unique to me. I always read the same-old books with the same-old thing, & the same-old style. So this was defentely refreshing to get something new and original, as Shadow & Bone! The writing swept me away from the first page, and had me engrossed in what the writer was portraying. Then as the story started to unfold I got sucked in, and could NOT stop unless I absolutely had too, and when I did, I thought of nothing else but how I could get Shadow & Bone back in my hands! The world building was perfect! I think the author did it just right. It wasn't lacking anything, or it didn't have to much of something else. I thought it was perfect the way it was! I felt a connection towards the characters that's hard to explain! It's like when Alina when go through something, whether it be good or bad, I went through it right a long with her. When she laughed, I laughed, when she cried, I felt like crying (And Sometimes Did)! It was that kind of connection that you rarely get with characters in books, but when you do connect it's a feeling of WOW! The Plot: Alina has always lived a very lonely life as an orphan. With only one person, her childhood friend Mal, another orphan, that befriended her and actually cared about her. Alina always knew she was different, deep down inside she felt she was not like the other orphans, no matter what she did she just did not fit in. But only one person ever accepted her, for her. Her best friend Mal! But Mal's defentely a ladies man, and over the years Alina has felt her and Mal drifting further and further apart, has he goes his way to becoming a tracker, a very good one at that. And Alina becoming a simple Map maker, and even struggles with that. But that's her life, what could she do? Well all this changes one day when her, Mal, and a group of soldiers, trackers, and other cartographers go into the fold, and are attacked by hungry fleshing craving monsters called Volcra, that stay in the fold and live off human flesh, and will attack and eat anything that comes into the fold! But as they're attacked, and Mal is almost killed by the Volcra, Alina reveals a powers she never knew she had until it burst out of her, dying to reach the surface! Alina is a Sun Summoner, and the last of her kind. She is the key to bring peace to the kingdom! When they were attacked she summoned the Sunlight from deep down inside of her, and brought it to the surface, and chased away the Volcra, and saved Mal, herself and some others from their demise. She is the first sign of hope that country has seen in a long time, And She Will Be Used... Alina is swept away into the Grisha world, with others with different powers, or should I say abilities, and is trained on how to use, and control her power. She is told she is to be used for good, until it all comes crashing down on her, and she comes to terms that she might very well be used not to destroy the fold but to enlarge it, expand it! And do evil instead of good! Alina can not allow that to happen, so she must not only fight for her life , but fight for the whole nation of Ravka! Wow, doesn't that sound AMAZING??? My review does NOT even begin to do this book any justice! I can not put into words how good this book was, and how it took me to a place like no other! If you haven't read Shadow & Bone yet, then you need to, because boy, are you missing out, just like I was!!!!

Review originally posted on The Book Addict's Guide Once again I find myself singing the praises of high fantasy! I’d seen tons of praise for this book pretty much everywhere and after seeing Leigh Bardugo at Anderson’s Bookshop first on the Fierce Reads tour in June and again at Anderson’s on August 30th (although I actually finished the book before then!), just seeing her personality and hearing her talk about the book and how she came up with it really drove me to get into the story. I absolutely loved the development of the Grisha and the story behind their history and abilities. It seemed utterly magical but as we learn more about the talents, there’s a little bit of practicality mixed in as well. It was really interesting to learn about and I found it quite unique. Another thing I really enjoyed is that the romance aspect isn’t overdone. We first learn that Alina has developed a crush on Mal in the very beginning of the book, so that’s something we already know, but since Mal is also her best friend and pretty much only friend, that also makes him so much more to Alina. He’s incredibly important to her and it’s not just a lust factor. As for The Darkling….. well that’s just a pure lust situation! So yes, I really loved where the story went and I loved how it all came together in the end! Leigh Bardugo’s writing was also extremely enjoyable and I loved the new elements that she brought to the story. Characters-- Alina: I didn’t find myself like Alina so much as I could understand her. As an orphan, Alina grew up alone. She’s stubborn, she’s protective, she’s independent; it’s not like I’d want her for my friend but I admire her courage and determination to make the best of herself and the situation she came from. It did get a bit tiresome at first once Alina was figuring out her abilities and once she became part of the Grisha society that she spent most of her time trying not to be noticed and pining for Mal. But then the more I thought about it, the more it made perfect sense. If you’re a person who’s not used to attention, it’s overwhelming when people are constantly praising you, following you around, and giving you special treatment. As a poor orphan, Alina never experienced anything like that before. Even though her ability is extraordinary, it’s now something that has put her in an uncomfortable spotlight and ripped her away from her only family – Mal. The Darkling: **Mild spoiler alert in The Darkling section (it’s not really a spoiler, but if you want to be kept totally in the dark, skip this part!)** He’s mysterious, he’s sexy, he’s…. old? We find out that due to the nature of The Darkling’s power, it severely enlongates his life. He reveals to Alina that he’s well over 100 years old so um, thanks but no thanks? It’s kind of a Twilight situation here (which somehow I was totally okay with in Twilight but not okay with in Shadow and Bone – I don’t know – don’t ask me why). I can understand he looks sexy and he acts sexy, but.. but.. he’s an old man? So yeah, he totally just didn’t appeal to me after I heard that! Had the age not been a factor, we’d have a little bit of a swoon situation going on. After knowing that? Yipes. ---- Re-read review: This was quite the interesting re-read for me… I think this was the first re-read in which I had two totally different expectations going into it: When I first picked up SHADOW AND BONE almost two years ago (!!!), I was not a fantasy reader. I think I had read Graceling first and that was about it, so I wasn’t expecting much in the way of a new fantasy book and it turned out that I loved it! I was really scared going into the re-read this time because I had since fallen in love with this series and was afraid that the re-read just wouldn’t be the same. Honestly, I did read the book entirely differently. Well, in two ways — I bought the audiobook from Audible because I’ve started to really enjoy doing my re-reads via audiobook and also because I been obsessing over the series for two years now and all of the THINGS that I know, I’m able to pick up on so much more with a re-read. I must say, re-reading SHADOW AND BONE really proved to me how amazing SIEGE AND STORM was. As someone who wasn’t a fantasy reader before, I very much appreciated the whole revelation of having powers, learning how to use them in that almost boarding school-type setting, and the romances involved but reading all of these things a second time and especially after reading SIEGE AND STORM came across totally differently. Honestly, TOTALLY. For one, I already knew Alina had powers and exactly what they entailed, so I wasn’t as interested in the figuring out process so much as paying attention to the other details that I may have glossed over in my first read. The whole learning process actually wasn’t as appealing to me the second time around, I think because I really already knew how it happened so I was ready to dive into more character development of secondary characters which didn’t happen as much in the first book as it does in the second. SHADOW AND BONE is very much about Alina and about Mal and about their ties to the Grisha so my impatience didn’t exactly pay off haha. But of course, it was still enjoyable to go through that experience again! I read the romance aspect of this book entirely differently the second time around. During my first read, I did not get what was the big deal about Mal. I liked him and I loved his friendship with Alina but I didn’t fall for him (or the Darkling, really, but that’s another story) the way other readers did. During my re-read. YEAH. MAL. I’M THERE. I really got to know him better in SIEGE AND STORM so that made my connection in this re-read stronger but WHOO BOY, that best friend romance thing going on there…. *fans self* How was I not more into this during my first read!? I don’t understand. Because best friends falling for each other is a trope that I luuuurve and I was totally on board with it during my re-read. I also felt less love-triangley about the Darkling because knowing what I know now, it seemed more like a power play than a romance and I had it in my head that way more happened than it actually did in the book. Since I already knew about the world-building side of the book, I did pay more attention to the romance this time around which hadn’t really seemed to play a big part for me during my original read. Speaking of world building, that was something I really enjoyed even more. The more I read about this world, the more I fall in love with it. It’s always a little difficult to get a grasp on a new world with unique (and foreign) names so now that I know a little more about the Grishaverse, I really got a hold on what happens where and exactly what’s involved. As far as plotting and characters go, obviously now I know their connections, but even then I was formulating new theories about the Darkling and why we don’t know his name yet and what if it’s related to or connected to characters we’ve already met and don’t know it?! I think I enjoyed my original read a little bit more than the re-read but I am even MORE anxious to re-read SIEGE AND STORM and I’m still salivating over RUIN AND RISING and dreaming about how it’s SO CLOSE. I’m still in love with this world and this series and it will be bittersweet to end in June but I still can’t wait!

I resisted reading this book for quite a long time. I haven't done so well with high fantasy in the past, and frankly, was certain I wouldn't like it. But, when it was the Kindle Daily Deal awhile ago, I figured I should buy it "just in case", since I'd heard so many great reviews. Fast forward a few months, it still sat unread. But then Ruin and Rising was set to be released, and no matter where I turned, I could not shake this series. So, I caved and started reading it. By the first couple chapters, I'd ordered Siege and Storm. I was simply that captivated by the world that Leigh Bardugo created. My problem with high fantasy generally is that often, I know that what I am reading is fantasy, and my logical mind can't let me just enjoy it. But with The Grisha series, Bardugo made me feel such a connection to Alina that I didn't need logic, I didn't care that the world didn't actually exist, I just knew that I needed to read more about her story and the world she lived in. First, Alina is such an incredible main character. Not only is she likable and relatable, her growth throughout the story is stunning to read. It is so believable, even in a completely unbelievable world. And can we please talk about Mal for a minute? I need more Mal in my life. He is not your "typical" love interest (though their circumstances certainly make a romantic collaboration seem plausible). He isn't spending his time pining away, he is his own person, and it is really quite refreshing. The Darkling.. well, I have no idea if I'll end up loving or hating him, and I did some of both during this book. But the characters were written so amazingly well, even the secondary characters, that it made me unable to put this book down. The story moves so nicely and is so captivating that I simply had to know what was happening next to these beloved (or in some cases, loathed) characters. The fantasy concept quickly became a moot point as I was completely propelled into the world that Bardugo had created. It all just felt like it belonged. The Grisha, the strange world, these characters, as much as they were fantasy-driven, when they came together, it all just worked. I would like to know a bit more about Ravka and the world around it, but since there are two more books, it wasn't really a problem for me. Bottom Line: As if my gushing weren't enough, if you'd had any reservations about this series, simply stop having them, and read it. I am so, so glad I did. Thank you, book community, for peer pressuring me into this series!

I'm sitting here at my computer and I have no idea which awesome aspect of the story I should start telling you about first. There were so many things I loved. I realize that if I went in to depth about everything you would stop reading because it would be SO LONG! Instead here are some highlights. You can read whatever appeals to you :) Also I need a thesaurus because I just loved everything and I kept wanting to say it was super awesome/fascinating/interesting/intriguing/I loved, I loved, I loved, I loved, I loved! They book itself:. The cover is gorgeous. I love the Russian-esque building, the colors, the shading, and the font! Throughout the book there are really beautiful fonts used at the beginning of chapters or breaks in the story. Each chapter also has gorgeous embellishments. It's all just so pretty and adds to the feel of the story! The World: I was really impressed by the world building in Shadow and Bone. The reader really got to know about Ravka and its surroundings. I don't mean just the geography either (Although there is a map!) I felt like I got to know much of the history and beliefs that went in to making the people of Ravka who they are and the rules of the world what they are. As a bonus? Russian geography, folklore, and culture were used as the basis for Ravka. Leigh has a video of images that inspired the creation of Ravka on her website! Words and language: The Russian language also has an influence in the book. Leigh took liberties with it and changed the words so that they sound like she wanted them to (this is a fictional world after al!) and I LOVED it! Again, it really added to the feel of the story and enhanced the mystery and magic. Check out Leigh's guide on how to speak Ravkan to see what I mean :) Grisha: Coolest. Ever. I mean, the "magical elite"? How can you not love that! The lore and the different divisions of the Grisha were fascinating to me. I Couldn't get enough of them. I would totally read, "The Grisha, a History" if it existed! I think the fact that I was learning more about Grisha as Alina was made it even more intriging. Also, the division between the Grisha and the soldiers was super interesting as well. The whole First Army/Second Army division... loved it. Alina: This girl rocks. Seriously. I could write a whole post about how awesome I think she is. Don't worry, I won't here. It would be too spoilery! I will say this... Alina's whole world is shaken. She is whisked from being an unknown traveling with the First Army to being a curiosity at court (sidenote: The court! AHHH! So much love!) Following along as she discovers who she is and her place in the world around her really kept me reading. The Darkling: Yeah... THE DARKLING! Once you read the book you'll know why it's in all caps. For now check out this post from Jennifer Rush (her book Altered is coming from Little, Brown in Fall.) He is definitely the bad boy to end all bad boys! Mal: Oh Mal. I couldn't forget him! He's been Alina's friend since childhood but he is not the boy next door. I liked the little ways that we got to know more about him. Since Alina has known him so long (and we get the story from her) it felt like more of a treat to learn about him. Totally crush-worthy. Before/After: There is a "Before" section and an "After" section. These pages bookend Alina's telling of the story. They give the book more of a storyteller feel. They also blew me away. In my notes I literally wrote: "Before" = O_O So good!!! Shadow and Bone captured me from the get go. I wanted to know more and more and more about the world and the characters that Leigh Bardugo has created. I was totally engrossed in the romance, the mystery, and the adventure. This is a series that has skyrocketed to the top of my "most anticipated" list! Add it to your wish list RIGHT NOW!!!

I’ll attempt this with no spoilers! My personal feelings: Let’s start off by saying, I love adult fantasy romance and I have a very hard time reading anything without that in it but let me tell you something, this was amazing. I love the magic system, the characters, I just loved it. I’m so glad I gave it a chance and I can’t wait to start the next book. As for the review: The beginning has a very strong start, I can’t stand slow pacing so the fact that it got right to it made me want to keep going, the characters are well built, the magic system is explained and there’s not much confusion to be hand. The middle of the book slows down a bit but not enough for me to put it down for long periods of time, the story keeps going and it picks up in pace as the story progresses. There isn’t a painful cliff hanger so if your waiting to read the second book or you’re not in any rush then you’ll be okay with a small reading break. I give it 5 stars simply for being so creative and having its own vibe. I haven’t read another book like it.

SHADOW AND BONE exceeded my every expectation. For fans of fantasy, high stakes, dark situations, magic, love, betrayal, excitement and terror – all that (and more) can be found within these pages. Leigh Bardugo certainly hit a home run in her very first shot. I knew I was starting something special when I read the very first chapter of SHADOW and BONE. We are first introduced to the two main characters when they are still at a young age, which allows us to build a tender (almost maternal) connection to them from the start. The story jumps ahead a handful or more years, into the middle of a tense scene where the same two characters are being forced to cross treacherous lands called the Shadow Fold. The Shadow Fold is a dark land full of monsters and other unknown dangers that separates various kingdoms. It is thanks to this dire situation that we are first exposed to the magic and wonder of Leigh’s fantastic world. After a vicious attack on their traveling company, unknown secrets and dormant powers are exposed, thrusting one of the two main characters into a new life of magic and royalty, while also forcing her to leave her dear friend behind. We experience the book from the point of view of the young mapmaker, Alina. It is through her that we learn about the politics of Ravka and meet new characters who have major roles to play within in the story. I loved learning about the various Grisha abilities and experiencing along with Alina as she acclimated to her new life in court. Her personal growth as the story progressed was astounding. She is flawed and she knows it. She makes split-decisions in times of weakness, she has wants and desires, yet she learns from her experiences. She feels regret, fear, pain… and yet below it all she feels immense wonder for the world around her. In all, she is more human than many characters I have read about in literature. Also, never before in a book have I actually rooted for the “supposed villain”, and I am not afraid to admit that I even felt sympathetic toward this character until the very end. In SHADOW AND BONE, I feel that the lines between “good” and “evil” are somewhat blurred. I do not believe that we know the truth about many of the characters, even at its final pages. It is the relevations that we learn about both the characters and the world they live in that makes SHADOW AND BONE one of the most intense and mystifying stories I have read all year. Thank goodness there will be two more books in this series. After seeing what Leigh can concoct with SHADOW AND BONE, I have a huge desire to read more from her! I look forward to the next installments in the series, SIEGE AND STORM and RUIN AND RISING. This is one series you DON’T want to miss.

I loved Shadow and Bone and found it to be wonderfully unique and exciting. I loved the world building and the setting. Everything was so different from anything I’ve ever been exposed to in YA fantasy! I am extremely unfamiliar with any Russian mythology, so as to whether the novel did a good job of using Russian elements well, I can’t really comment. There seems to be a sort of Goodreads opinion that it was horribly executed as far as introducing Russian elements correctly, but I think the author did a great job of introducing awesome fantasy elements for a Western culture. (And to be fair, even though I’m very knowledgeable about Greek/Roman mythology, I love it when those elements are changed around, used in unique ways, even if certain myths are completely incorrect in the retelling. So… yeah. I don’t understand the bashing.) Shadow and Bone was awesome. The world was unique and so were the characters. I liked Alina, although she started off quite weak. She grew a lot along the way and she learned to develop her power. I liked the way her character was developed and her journey from orphan to Grisha. I absolutely loved The Darkling. His character was fantastic. I think he might be my favorite villain ever. I swear I see some good in him and I could read about him all day. He was so fascinating. Genya was another amazing character. She was sassy, firm, and incredibly helpful. Her personality really radiated and I think she was crucial to Alina’s development. The only character I didn’t really like was Mal. I think perhaps he was under developed, but maybe I just didn’t really care because he’s not The Darkling? I’m not sure. And perhaps the best part of the story was the incredible twist. Not much in the world of fiction surprises me anymore because I read so much. And I was truly surprised by the way the story just shifted in direction. I won't say anything else regarding plot details, but you guys that have read the book know exactly what I'm talking about!! If you haven’t read the book, I highly recommend picking it up. It’s awesome, unique, and a bit romantic, too.

I was originally interested because of the fantasy element. I discovered a Young Adult book club here in Atlanta and their July pick is Shadow and Bone, so I had to buy it and read it quickly. I cannot express how happy I am that it fell into my lap sooner rather than later. Loads of excitement, peeps! CHARACTERS: I love me a good villain. The kind that you want to simultaneously hug and stab repeatedly. The kind that can manipulate you into a pile of confused goo but leave your blood boiling like lava. The author delivers a villain such as this in Shadow and Bone, known as the Darkling, the most powerful Grisha alive. He is at the center of the twisted, dangerous journey our heroine, Alina Starkov, must endure. He was fascinating to experience. Alina is an orphan employed in the map-making ranks of the army, alongside her lifelong orphan friend, Mal, who is the best tracker in the army. As the story begins, it is apparent that Alina is smitten with Mal and has been for years. Mal is quite the lady-killer and enjoys his status, but adores Alina and is protective of her well-being. When Alina's life drastically changes with the blink of a blinding light, she is quickly swept away to the palace, leaving Mal far behind. She struggles deeply with their separation, as well as with fitting in amongst the elite people of her world. She never quite feels welcome and normal. I welcomed her insecurities because it made her likable and relatable. Mal resurfaces and you are immediately reminded of why Alina loves the guy, though their reunion is anything but perfect and peaceful. Genya, a fellow Grisha and a character you are never sure to trust or not, is the only person Alina grows fond of in the palace, and I adored her personality. She's a sassy redhead. "You're very welcome," she said, giving my hair a hard tug. "You should be used to being gawked at by now." "And yet I'm not." "Well, if it gets too bad, give me a signal, and I'll get up on the banquet table, toss my skirt over my head, and do a little dance. That way no one will be looking at you." WORLD-BUILDING: I will do my best not to flail about in serious world-building delight, but I am in awe and in love with the world-building in Shadow and Bone! The magical atmosphere of this book is heavy, as the Grisha are the magical elite force of the Second Army and Masters of the Small Science. There are 3 categories: Corporalki (The Order of the Living and The Dead), Ethrealki (The Order of Summoners) and Materialki (The order of Fabrikators). These people have innate magic that is tested during childhood. If they are discovered as Grisha, they are sent away to the palace to be trained and master their skill. At some point in history, a very powerful Grisha created the Shadow Fold, or the Unsea. It is a vast expanse of sandy terrain devoid of any light. Pitch. Frakkin. Black. Not only is it terrifying, but creatures out of your worst nightmare are ready to rain down on your behind. According to the map in the book, it covers the western part of the continent, and stands in between the people and the True Sea, which makes it very difficult for trading and the like. An interesting part of this society, for me, was how segregated it appeared. The Grisha look down upon their associates in other categories, whispering and engaging in forms of snobbery and discrimination. Alina never quite felt at home due to the constant backstabbing and gossiping, often wondering who to trust, which only added to the isolation and loneliness she felt. Another interesting part of this society was the outcasts, or otkazat'sya. It reminded me very much of the Indian caste system, though less harsh - on the surface, anyway. The political minutia is subtle in this book, but the Darkling has serious plans to take politics to the next level for this society. Of course, Alina lay at the very core of his plan. I hope we learn more about Grisha Theory and the Small Science in Siege and Storm! LASTING IMPRESSIONS: This book has it all: stellar world-building, intriguing characters, an epic plot line and a romance so subtle that the realization bowls you over. This book is my favorite read of the year thus far. I am thoroughly in love with the characters, the world and the plot. Triple WIN! FAVORITE SCENE: "You are becoming dangerous, and you will become more dangerous still." "Me?" I whispered. "To whom?" "There is something more powerful than any army. Something strong enough to topple kings, and even Darklings. Do you know what that thing is?" I shook my head, inching away from him. "Faith," he breathed, his black eyes wild. "Faith."

It's no secret that this is one of my favorite books of 2012. I couldn't stop thinking about it, wrote a blog post about it after just finishing, and kept rereading it in the following days. Ten Likes/Dislikes 1. (+) Alina, the protagonist - Alina had me from the beginning. First I really liked the orphan scene, Alina and Mal's wildness, and the way their friendship held but also changed over the years. Then came her sharpness and humor and strength (and sadness) regarding Mal in those opening chapters. Sometimes she does come off as being a little unsure of herself, but it wasn't enough to detract from her character. 2. (+) World-building - Absolutely fantastic! Volcra and the Grisha Orders and the history of Ravka and the other countries (I'd really like to know more there) and the Shadow Fold and the tents/Court and the tsarist/Russian feel-- everything! Loved it all! It saddened me to read a review on Goodreads that suggested that perhaps the Russian inspired feel was not done as well as it could have been (in terms of proper linguistic choices etc.), but at the time I was reading the book, I was so caught up in the details that I'm not sure I would've noticed otherwise. 3. (+) Romance - the best of both worlds - romance with the Darkling (as implied in summary) & with best friend Mal. (No, there is no love triangle. That's all I'm going to say though, because I don't want to spoil it for you). I believed in both romances equally, though I'm more inclined to the Darkling simply because I'm fascinated by his character. The scenes with Mal are more heartfelt, and the scenes with the Darkling are more mysterious-- the romances both worked and functioned in their own way. 4. (+) The Darkling - Can I take a moment here to praise the Darkling? At first, he seems like the typical brooding, dark and arrogant YA stock romantic interest, but there is so, so much more to him. When you have questions about a character and after reading the novel, can't stop thinking about the character because you want to know more, you know that the author has done a good job. I don't actually want to go into specifics about the Darkling, because you all should discover him for yourself. 5. (+) Character growth - Few novels that are a part of a trilogy focus the character growth in one book. Rather most seem to do it over the series, but Shadow and Bone has plenty of character that's refreshing to see for the start of a series. Alina starts off doubting herself quite a bit, but lessons with her teachers among other things help her grow into a stronger woman... And if Alina already has this much potential, I can't wait to see how much more she'll grow in the next two books. 6. (+) Prologue/Epilogue - I really love it when I can feel a book cycling back to the beginning and highlighting the themes. I also thought that the prologue and epilogue were particularly well written. 7. (+) Cliches - You might be a little confused by me writing that I liked the cliches but just wait. It is a little cliche to have an orphan who has a lot of power, to have the most beautiful girl taunted at Court despite her abilities, to have the "mysterious" romantic interest, but Leigh Bardugo makes them work. She put enough detail in there that I believed in the characters and didn't stop to think about how cliche the situation might be. 8. (+) Writing - It was pretty easy to get lost in the writing, in the sensuality and atmosphere of the world. Admittedly, sometimes I got a little confused when it came to the names (all the different ranks, etc.), but that probably wouldn't have been a problem had I been reading a finished copy with the list of all the Grisha Orders and not an egalley on my computer. 9. (+/-) Pacing - When I was reading the book, I was lost enough in the world not to care, but now that I'm thinking back on it, the middle was slower than the rest. It probably would've been better to have less of the Zoya drama / girl characters (whose names I cannot remember for the life of me) gossip and more action, more twists in the plot. 10. (+) The Cover - Big win. Thank God for a cover that isn't yet another close-up of a girl's face and actually features themes from the book. I loved, loved, LOVED this book. There have only been a few YA books this year that have affected me in the same way Shadow & Bone has (Incarnate, Insurgent, and The Golden Lily). Can't wait for my copy to arrive :).

Every once in a looooong while, a totally awesome fantasy book comes along that makes me happy and reminds me what good fantasy looks and sounds like. The last fantastic fantasy I read also had "bone" in the title (the epic "Smoke and Bone", which I have yet to review). "Shadow and Bone" easily slides onto my "top YA fantasy" list as of last night, when I finished the Kindle version in the wee hours of the morning (little hint...when you pre-order a book on Kindle, it almost always arrives the day before the release date). I loved this book. I loved the russian-esque setting, I loved the mythos, I loved the world-building, I loved Alina, and -- much to my surprise, especially considering his thick-headedness in the first four chapters -- I ended up loving Mal, too. I suppose anyone who reads the above who may have read the five preview chapters will have a vague idea that the plot and characters in "Shadow and Bone" are not always what they seem. This, my friends, is an understatement of gross proportions. But I can't go into more detail about all that or I'll end up throwing out some rather large spoilers. Yes, there's romance a-plenty in this book....but it's more than balanced out with a fiercely awesome story line. Unlike some YA books, the romance doesn't gobble up the entire plot. But it's also not shoved into the closet, either. And Alina...she's an awesome heroine who is more than worthy of her role as the female lead of this book. She makes mistakes but she just as quickly learns from them and almost always does the right thing in the end. As for the bad guy....I think it's safe to say he's one of the best YA baddies I've come across in some time...especially because he's so complex and darned difficult to dislike, at least until the end of the book. I imagine many readers will be completely caught off guard, as I was, when all is revealed about 3/4 of the way in....and I give kudos to the author for keeping me on board instead of disappointed when the big reveals start flying. As I read this book, I had the distinct impression I was reading something much bigger and more epic than the usual YA fantasy. There were moments when things had a distinctly Potter-esque feeling about them (although this book has almost nothing in common with that other wonderful series as far as plot goes). Like that other series, the author has paid a huge attention of detail to world building and the character actions are sometimes truly magnificent, sometimes humbling, and sometimes horrific. I am really, really looking forward to reading the next book in this series. I can't imagine where things are going to go next....but I'm sure it's going to be an excellent ride!

Did you ever read a book, see the launch of a new gadget, or watch a new movie and think to yourself, "Why didn't I think of that?! It's Brilliant!" That is how I felt after reading Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo. It was such a phenomenal fantasy that I am going to take a virtual bow to Bardugo and her brilliance and wonder (not so) silently why I can't write like this! Alina Starkov is a mapmaker's apprentice, and not a very good one. Before that she was an orphan. The only person who ever mattered to her was her fellow orphan and lifelong friend, Mal, but in the harsh world where the supernatural Shadow Fold has bisected the country of Ravka, nothing is safe. The Shadow Fold is a huge swath of land that has been plunged into darkness by a powerful Grisha. Since then, the Fold is almost impassable and hunted by the terrifying Volcra beasts. The military escorts people across the Fold, but they are no safer than anyone else in the No Man's Land of the Fold. Mal is in the military, but the King has two armies. The first army is made up of your standard soldiers, people willing to die for their country or at least to get a few warm meals before they die. The second army is a class of people unto themselves called Grisha. The Grisha are magical folk who all have gifts that support the King's campaign. They are broken up into three types of Grisha, but one stands along: The Darkling. The Darkling is the most powerful Grisha in Ravka. When Alina and Mal get to the Fold for their first crossing, the Darkling is there. As they cross, the Grisha move the land boat across the sand and try to protect the skiff, but more volcra than ever appear and attack the group. When Alina and Mal are attacked, something unheard of happens: Alina begins to radiate sunlight. The sunlight repels the volcra, saving the crew, but it also means Alina is a Grisha. When the Darkling hears about her feat, he whisks her off to the castle to be trained. With her power to summon the sun, Alina and the Darkling could rid Ravka of the Shadow Fold together. Unfortunately, there are people out there who don't want to destroy the Shadow Fold and even more who want to destroy Alina. She knows the responsibility her power brings, but that doesn't mean she isn't still just an orphan girl, in love with a boy who may never speak to her again. But will Mal come back to Alina? Oh holy fantasy, Batman! Shadow and Bone is a fantasy land that will make you want to finish the final page and start all over again immediately. Bardugo created a world that is both terrifying and magical. The characters are complex and deep to the point that you aren't always sure their intentions or motives, but you know you want to learn more about them. And the bad guys? Oh Boy! From the Volcra to the bad Grisha to the incompetent king, this is a story with layers and layers of evil that will make your head spin. But Alina is a great heroine. Caught up in the whirlwind f the Grisha world, she misses the simplicity of her former self but knows she can never go back again. She knows she has a responsibility to use her powers for good, but she is skeptical of those who wish to control her and enslave her. Alina faces insurmountable challenges, but deep within a poor orphan body is a strong woman willing to sacrifice everything for what is right. And this is only the beginning. The Grisha Trilogy has more to come and after Shadow and Bone you will be more than just anxious for Bardugo to get the next book out there. This is your next big trilogy to watch out for, everyone! It's out there and it is going to be unstoppable! Keep this book on your shelves for all manner of students because it is an accessible fantasy with great characters and an amazing world that will appeal to all kinds of people, young adult to adults. And don't forget to keep a copy for yourselves because this is one you are going to want to reread!

A few years ago, I read this book about a girl who was fighting this version of "Survivor" in a dystopian future, except instead of voting people off the island, kids killed kids and the winner was the last one living. I couldn't put it down. That book was "The Hunger Games." I think I've read approximately 400 books since "The Hunger Games." Most have been good, some have been average, but none have reached the unputdownable success of "The Hunger Games." That is until I read "Shadow and Bone" by Leigh Bardugo. "Shadow and Bone" has a lot in common with the popular young adult dystopian literature that is out there right now. Love triangle? Check. Tyrannical government that must be overthrown? Check. Girl who thinks she's ordinary but turns out to have special gifts, even if that gift is sheer pluckiness? Check. What makes it different from "Divergent" or "Delirium" or even "The Hunger Games" is the element of fantasy added to it and the fact that Bardugo has based her world on turn of the last century Russia. The names are different but the connection is there. There's even a "mad monk" who looks and acts suspiciously like Rasputin. The main character is Alina, an orphan, who is working as a mapmaker in what seems like a centuries old war. During an attack by some fearsome monsters, Alina is revealed to be one of the Grisha, people who reject the terms witch and magic, yet use mystical powers to manipulate the world around them. Alina's power turns out to be quite unique and she finds herself being taken to the King in the company of the most powerful of all the Grisha, a man known only as the Darkling. To say anymore would spoil too much, but there are many twists and turns and I found myself caring about all the characters even the ones who turn out to be something less than what they seemed. Alina is extremely likeable. She's self-deprecating but intelligent and ultimately quite the feminist heroine. Though she falls for two men and is, at one point, at the complete mercy of one, she proves to be stronger than both, willing to do whatever it takes to save the world.

I pre-ordered this book because of the amazing early reviews that it was receiving and I don't do that very often, especially for a debut author. I went into this book knowing it was going to be awesome and unique, read it in about a few hours and finished it knowing that it had exceeded my high expectations. I loved this book and I would recommend it to anyone who loves to read fantasy! There's a map in this book! Whenever there are maps, I try to get a good feel for where cities and countries are so that I don't have to flip back and forth but I always end up flipping back and forth! Which it didn't mind at all because I wanted to know everything about this world that Bardugo created! Alina is such a great heroine and an awesome well-rounded character! She's strong, grounded, loyal, she knows who she is and when the story beings, she has accepted her lot in life. She fights in the King's army and she knows she'll probably die doing it. But her whole world changes when her undiscovered magical talent is revealed during a near fatal attack. This is when Alina struggles to put her trust in those around her because she doesn't feel like she really belongs. The Darkling is also one of my favorite characters! I was drawn to him from the beginning (maybe for the sheer fact that he's called The Darkling) and I rooted for him throughout the story! Even after finishing it I still hope that he's going to turn out to be good and that he isn't evil! I also loved him because he was always encouraging Alina and supporting her when most of the Grisha snubbed their noses at her. He knew she was going to be great even when she was having trouble summoning her powers. I was able to attend a book signing and an author panel in which Leigh Bardugo was a part of. I just love listening to authors talk about how they create their worlds and invent their characters. Bardugo mentioned that she wanted take the intangible concept of darkness in a country or nation and put it into reality. Ravka is literally divided by an impenetrable darkness which is filled with terrify monsters. I think that hearing tidbits from authors gives me a better understanding of the book and a greater appreciation! Shadow and Bone is such a great book that sucked me in during the first chapter, making it impossible to put down! I give Shadow and Bone 5 hearts for being one of the best fantasy novels I've ever read!

Um, wow, even with all the glowing reviews, I was unprepared for the immense love I have for Leigh Bardugo's Shadow and Bone. I was thrust into this new fantasy realm, unsure of what lay ahead, but I finished the book eagerly wanting to return to the world of Ravka. Alina Starkov is the protagonist of Shadow and Bone and I immediately took a liking to her. Though she may be cynical at times, at the core she feels an overwhelming loneliness and suffers from a lack of self-confidence. Yes, you could probably say that about every other female main character in a YA novel, but Alina really struck a chord with me. She grew a lot throughout the course of the novel, from a naive and weak girl to someone stronger. Leigh Bardugo didn't have an immediate transformation for her, though: it was a difficult journey for Alina and she still has a long way to go to meet her potential. When she does, though, it will be very much earned. The Darkling is a character I feel completely DISTRAUGHT over. Leigh Bardugo created the perfect mysterious character in him: powerful, seductive, and 100% magnetic. Man, I was completely swooning all over the place for him during his initial interactions with Alina. Still, through it all, I had the sinking feeling that things weren't as they seemed and I kept wondering, "Am I supposed to love him?!" I have no idea where my feelings should go from this book, I feel all sorts of conflicted at the moment, but I'm still very attached to the Darkling and am excited to see where his character arc goes. IF THIS IS WRONG, I DON'T WANT TO BE RIGHT, ETC. Mal is the main love interest in the book, as well as Alina's best friend, and I really like him! I can't say I had extremely gushing feelings for him, but that's because he was missing for a good chunk of the book. The parts that he was in, though, I really enjoyed his character and I have an appreciation for his friendship with Alina. They've experienced a lot together, both as children and in the present, making it clear that their bond is an unbreakable one. This review would be incomplete without a mention of Leigh Bardugo's world building. With a Russian influence, she crafted the Grisha mythology and I was super invested in it. There's an awesome map of Ravka at the beginning of the book, but it served only as a visual aid -- Leigh Bardugo completely laid out her world in the text. With mystery, romance, action, and complete with a touch of magic, Leigh Bardugo has created a book that is sure to make my end of the year lists. I loved how she wrapped up this installment: with enough closure, but still keeping the door open for many more adventures ahead.

In Ravka, there is a place where only monsters dwell and mankind fears to tread. The Fold is a place of nightmares and, unfortunately, Alina Starkov is part of the regiment assigned with the task of crossing it. When things go horribly wrong on the journey across this dark wasteland, Alina is found to possess a miraculous gift that could turn back the tides of darkness. As she undergoes training to become a member of the Grisha, the magical counterpart of Ravka's army, Alina learns that nothing is as it seems. Will she claim her untapped power and, if so, at what cost? The characters that make up Shadow and Bone are nothing short of spectacular, especially Alina. She is a girl who knows what she wants and isn't one to suffer fools. Even when she is essentially press-ganged into the Grisha fold, she still goes in on as many of her own terms as she possibly can, even going so far as to turn down what to her is an unearned advancement. She possesses steely determination that left me very impressed with her as the book progressed. Though she is, at times, self-deprecating and lacks confidence, she eventually grows and becomes a formidable opponent for those who would see her fail. The Darkling, the mysterious leader of the Grisha, kept me guessing the entire time. He is the perfect kind of mysterious for this book. The shocks I experienced at his hands were nothing short of staggering. As for Mal, I only wish there had been a bit more time to get to know him better. I spent half the time he appeared being frustrated with him and the other half being intrigued. I must know more! I simply adored the world building that Leigh Bardugo accomplished in Shadow and Bone. Her descriptions of Ravka swirl off the page and almost seem to hover before your very eyes. I especially loved reading about the Little Palace, the site of Grisha headquarters. The palace intrigue along with the descriptions of its structure were amazing and I couldn't get enough. The writing itself was so riveting that I immediately wanted the rest of the series right then and there. I am sure that I could have read them all back-to-back and been a happy camper. Shadow and Bone is nothing short of extraordinary. It has one of the most imaginative worlds I have read about in quite some time. Its Russian flair made for an intriguing tone and the dangers described were simply chilling. Chock full of action, magic, romance, and betrayal, Shadow and Bone will pull you in and won't let you go until the last word on the last page has been read. This is one book that will demand your attention and will compel you to read it time and time again. This reader just couldn't get enough! Obligatory legal statement: This advance review copy was provided to me free of charge by the publisher. No monetary compensation was received in exchange for this fair and unbiased review. This review originally appeared on my blog, Starting the Next Chapter, on May 23, 2012.

Ahh! The twists and turns were exhilarating! Shadow and Bone literally had me sitting on the edge of my seat several times. I had no idea a book could do that to me. I went into this book with very little background knowledge. I just knew that several friends had enjoyed it and it came highly recommended. Even an author I enjoy (Veronica Roth) spoke highly of the book. I’m glad I gave it a try. I absolutely loved Alina. She was by far one of the best female leads I’ve read in awhile. She was such a smartass, but in a good way. Her quips and retorts to people were priceless. Her transformation as a character was intriguing. Her relationship with Mal was enviable. Speaking of Mal…what a great best friend. Sure he has his flaws, but he proved his loyalty to Alina and their relationship. I think the take home message I got from Shadow and Bone is that mercy and compassion will always be stronger than cruelty and ruthlessness. The Darkling (by the way, I hated that name because it made me think of The Midnighters series by Scott Westerfeld and the creatures of the midnight hour. This confused me so much at first.) was a ruthless leader. He wanted to rule by fear and terror. SPOILER AHEAD: Alina knew this and used her power of mercy to overpower him. Of course, it might not be for long. Who knows what books two and three hold for Alina, but for now it was a victory. CAUTION SPOILER AHEAD: I was reading so fast to find out what was going to happen next that I didn’t take my time to really think about why the stag was haunting Alina’s dreams. But when she put two and two together it made perfect sense. The Darkling did kill the stag so he had the power behind the amplifier. But her mercy in not killing the stag gave her more power. Thus proving that mercy trumps cruelty. My only gripe with Shadow and Bone is the made up words. I’m the type of reader that gets easily distracted by words I can’t pronounce. I’m not even 100% certain how to pronounce Alina. Of course, this is not a demerit for the book, just a personal gripe of mine. I finally just made up words myself for the words I couldn’t say so they didn’t distract me. I really wish there was more of a backstory about Ravka and this society. I want to know what time period this is set in. Is it in the future, after a collapse of our civilization? Is it set in the past long before our time? The fact that they do not have any of our technologies could play into either of the aforementioned theories. I just wish I knew about the time period this was set in. I wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to get into Shadow and Bone because of the magic and supernatural nature of the book. But even I was able to set that aside and enjoy the story and the characters. I’m so glad I followed the recommendation of Bethany and bought this book. But now I have to be tormented over the next year while I wait for the second book and then the third book the following year. I’m dying to know what becomes of Ravka and if the Shadow Fold can be destroyed and the country restored. The rating is truly a 4.5 stars. I'm very stingy with my 5 star ratings this just wasn't quite 5 stars, but so darn close it deserves half a star better than just four. :)

I'm not an avid fantasy reader and I usually loose interest in a series after the first book because all fantasy seems pretty much the same to me. Let me just say, I don't think this will be the case with Shadow and Bone. I plan on reading the second book in the Grisha series as soon as I can get my grubby hands on it. Why? Somehow Ms. Bardugo managed to trick me into feeling that her novel was different than other YA fantasy. How? Well, I haven't quite figured that out yet. Shadow and Bone follows the same formula as those that came before it. Special Protagonist + World Need Saving + Insta Love Interest (S) + Beauty = Fantasy Novel. While Shadow and Bone have some deviations though essentially follow the same formula: Special Protagonist + Area in Country needs Saving + Love Interest (S) - Insta + Beauty + Ugly = Shadow and Bone Just those few changes make this first installment in the Grisha series a unique Fantasy read for me. The writing? I have some issues with the writing at first but those issues disappeared into nothingness the further into the book I got. I did find that some of Ms. Bardugo's sentences were phrased strangely here and there, causing me to reread a handful of paragraphs. As for the descriptions, well Ms. Bardugo did a pretty decent job and the only area I found truly lacking was in regards to the caste system of the Grisha themselves. It took me quite a few chapters to figure out each group's specialty. Once I had the Grisha thoroughly understood, then I was sitting pretty all the way to the last page. As for the characters, they were all over the place for me. Here's just a few of my issue with the main characters to give you and idea of what I mean: I found Alina hard to like and yet easy to love. She started off for me as a negative person who later brightens a bit. This made her a tiny more realistic to me as a person. Not everyone can be a happy bubble head who is one dimensional. Still, I found her in the end to be a slightly fickle person when it comes to her attentions. The Darkling was mysterious and Ms. Badugo kept up that mystery throughout the book. I just feel as if she could have went into more of the darklings origins. Alina's friend Mal, really didn't make much of an impression on me. He's starts off as the male slut and then makes another appearance towards the end as some valiant hero who loves Alina. I'm sorry but I'm not buying that. Genya, Alina's friend, was the cherrful, bubble head at first. Later, I discovered it was all an act to protect herself and found Genya to be the most likeable character in this book. Overall, I enjoyed Shadow and Bone. It took me exactly a day and a half to finish and when I'm wanting the second book, then I know it's a story I really liked. If not for the numerous small issues I had with Shadow and Bone, this YA Fantasy would have easily made my favorites list. Still, Ms. Bardugo did a pretty darn good job of the first Grisha book and I promise you I will be reading the second installment. My issues with the book could very well simply be because of myself and not Ms. Bardugo. So I encourage any and all to give Shadow and Bone a try themselves. Let me know what you think while your at it!

WoW...What can I say? This book deserves 5+ stars!!! I am completely and utterly obsessed with this book and the characters. It has everything from a budding romance to an action packed adventure. I love the Fantasy aspect of the story as well. The world that Leigh Bardugo has created is so fascinating. The "dark" side of the plot also keeps you hooked. I turned pages wellllll into the night with this story. I definitely recommend for anyone who enjoys young adult and suspense story's. Some of my favorite quotes: "I'm sorry it took me so long to see you, Alina. But I see you now." "I missed you every hour. And you know what the worst part was? It caught me completely by surprise. I'd catch myself just walking around to find you, not for any reason, just out of habit, because I'd seen something that I wanted to tell you about or because I wanted to hear your voice. And then I'd realize that you weren't there anymore, and every time, every single time, it was like having the wind knocked out of me. I've risked my life for you. I've walked half the length of Ravka for you, and I'd do it again and again and again just to be with you, just to starve with you and freeze with you and hear you complain about hard cheese every day. So don't tell me why we don't belong together," he said fiercely." Alot of reviewers will give you a breakdown of the book but I feel as though that takes away from the experience. I will give you my opinion of how I perceived the book and then you should read the book for yourself so that you enjoy every second, every secret, every lie......enjoy...

Shadow and Bone was a marvelous fantasy tale. Bardugo created relatable characters and paired them with an exceptional fictional world. The hype of this book has been large. As with many popular books, they have the tendency to have all the same qualities. Not this one. Shadow and Bone is like nothing I have ever read. I can't wait to finish the trilogy. Pick up this fantastic series today! It's fresh, unique, and filled with action. Alina Starkov is an orphan. She was an abused child living in a house with a wretched duke, and cared for by an even more horrible lady, named Ana Kuya. Alina's life was drained of love. But when Mal , another orphan, shows up they immediately have a deep connection. Mal and Alina's relationship lays the foundation for this novel. They are the center that holds the world together. Mal is the only person that Alina can rely on. He is her rock. Alina has been in love with him since the beginning. The fictional world of Shadow and Bone is incredible. It's kind of hard to explain, though. Basically you have the country of Ravka, which is separated by the Unsea, or the Shadow Fold. The Shadow Fold was created hundreds of years ago and contains killer creatures called Volcra. Volcra are flying creatures that used to be the people living in the area before the Fold was created. Mal and Alina are both stationed near the fold in the First Army. Mal is a tracker and Alina is a mapmaker. This isn't a normal military base though. In Bardugo's world, there are Grisha. The Grisha are people with powers. They live in the Little Palace and are treated like royalty. However, the less important or powerful Grisha serve in the army, as well. There is a very distinct line between normal humans and Grisha. They do not associate with each other. During Alina and Mal's service, they travel with an army into the Shadow Fold. This is a daunting task that will have many casualties. Not even the Grisha can protect the army from the dangerous Volcra. Mal and Alina are both at the brink of death. Their skin torn from the Volcra's sharp claws. As Alina's life slips, a bright light as large as the sun shines out of Alina herself. When Alina comes too, she finds herself in the Grisha tent. Confused, she tries to play off what happened on the ship. There was no way she could be Grisha. She had been tested as a child and wasn't. There was simply no way. But the Darkling has other views on the situation. The Darkling is the leader of the Grisha. He is the ruler of the Little Palace and corresponds with the King himself. He has dark gray eyes and a handsome smile that everyone seems to fancy. The Darkling is also an amplifier. Meaning he can increase the power in a Grisha significantly. Items can also be amplifiers, and this comes into play a little bit later. The Darkling takes Alina into his grasp, and again, she lights up like the sun. The word choice and imagery that Bardugo uses in this part of the story is incredible. Having a girl light up brightly may seem a little odd, but the way that the author beautifully explains it makes is magical. The Darkling pronounces Alina as the Sun Summoner. She is destined to team up with the Darkling and eradicate the Shadow Fold entirely. She is taken away from camp, away from Mal, and to the Little Palace, to live her life as a Grisha Alina is revered at the Little Palace. She is prayed to and touched carefully. The Darkling goes to great lengths to protect Alina from harm. She is too important to risk. Without her and her light, there is no way to cross and destroy the Fold. This is the Darkling's only goal. Alina knows how important it is that she learn to use her powers. She needs them to help the Darkling! In her various lessons, she fails. Whether it is with her powers or in hand to hand combat. She lacks behind the other Grisha in everything, even theory. Alina misses Mal terribly and writes to him every week. However, she never receives a reply. Bagrha is Alina's teacher. She helps her control her power and pushes her incredibly hard. Almost too hard. There are times when the Darkling comes in and snaps at Baghra for pushing Alina too hard. The Darkling and Baghra have a very tense relationship, and Alina wants to know why. The Darkling and Alina have been getting closer and closer. But when she asks about Baghra, the Darkling just shrugs it off. Alina's only friend in the Little Palace is Genya. Genya is one of the lower classes of Grisha. She is able to change the appearance of a person. Her main project is with the queen, because the queen always has to look good, right? Genya also helps Alina look better after her stressful days. Genya and Alina often eat dinner together and discuss the Little Palace as friends often do. The other Grisha aren't so inviting to Alina. As the Sun Summoner, she works alone. Other Etherealki (a type of Grisha that controls the elements) usually work in pairs or groups, which makes Alina the odd one out. She also receives special treatment from the Darkling. For example, each Griash wears a Kefta. This is a large jacket or wrap that they wear. The different colors represent the different category of Grisha. Black is the Darkling's color, and he wants Alina to wear it too. Even thought it is a great honor, Alina turns it down. Eventually the Darkling gives her a black Kefta without asking her. I really liked reading about Alina's time in the Little Palace. It was interesting to learn about all the Grisha that lived there. They all have such unique qualities, but are really relatable. Genya falls for a man that is plain, when she is the most beautiful Grisha there is. The other Etherealki, as Alina describes them, are fake. They act like the common high school girl today. Sucking up to the most popular and talking bad about people behind their backs. Now let's talk about the most interesting part of Alina's stay at the Little Palace. The Darkling and Alina's relationship. When the Darkling first kissed Alina, I felt like it had taken him long enough. They obviously had some tension going on. Alina was strongly attracted to the Darkling, as were many people. She never told anyone what was really going on between them. In this part of the book I really liked the Darkling. He was dark (obviously) and mysterious. There were secrets in his eyes that the readers wanted to know. But these secrets were more horrible than anyone could imagine. One of the best parts of the book is the Ceremony held for the Grisha. When the Darkling and Alina step on stage in their black keftas. They put on a show of interweaving light and dark. It is described so beautifully. At this point, the Darkling and Alina's magic flow together like it was destiny. Next in the story we learn about the Stag. Going back to what I said about amplifiers being objects. This isn't a ordinary Stag. It is part of a herd that is said to be legend. If Alina kills the Stag, the antlers can be used as an amplifier so she can use her power freely. She is still having difficulty in her classes with Baghra and there is no time to waste. She needs this amplifier. The Darkling thinks it was made for her. Now it's time for the plot twist! So if you are reading this review and have not read the book, please read it. It will be much more fun. Was I the only one who didn't see the twist coming. The only one who actually liked the Darkling? I simply can't be alone, right? Of course I knew there would be some kind of twist that drew Alina back to Mal, otherwise what was the point of having their relationship in the beginning!? I knew there was going to be a twist, but wasn't expecting this. Come on, me, his name is Darkling for Pete's sake. So the Darkling has been lying. He isn't planning on destroying the Shadow Fold. He is planning on extending it. Baghra pulls Alina from her room and tells her she has to run. This moment was so intense. I trusted the Darkling's words. I didn't see anything that told me not to. I am sure that a re-read would warrant a lot of reasons though. But in this moment, i felt exactly as Alina did. Scared and betrayed and alone. Baghra tells Alina everything she couldn't tell her before. She is the Darkling's mother. She knew about his evil plans the whole time, but knew that he couldn't do it without the Stag. She didn't believe in the Stag at all, so she didn't think there was a reason to panic. But a powerful tracker has located the Stag, and it was just a matter of time until the plan would be revealed by the Darkling himself. She urges Alina to run, because the Darkling is pure evil. He created the Fold in the first place, and now, he wants to rule the world with it. I couldn't believe any of the words I had read. I just stared at my Kindle for a few moments. Wait...what? What about the kisses and the moments that Alina and the Darkling shared? I admit that I like Mal more than the Darkling, but it was still an intriguing relationship. And the way it was written was just flawless. I was sad to see it go, but if the Darkling had been lying about his goals, he wasn't good for Alina anyway. Alina runs. She escapes the Little Palace and heads toward the mountains-the last place she heard the Stag being mentioned. The Darkling's plot has a lot of terrifying aspects. For one, he is planning on killing the Stag himself and forcing the horns on Alina. By doing this, he will have complete control of her powers, and can use the light to escape the Volcra, and use his own power to extend the Fold and seize power. Alina spends days freezing to death in the mountains. She knows she will never find the Stag on her own. Thankfully, she runs into our heroic Mal. The guy we were waiting over half the book to make his daring return. He does. He more than does. Mal and Alina's reunion is amazing. They tell each other about their feelings. it turns out Mal never received the mail from Alina, so he assumed the worst. There were rumors that she was being tortured, so he teamed up with the Grisha to help find the Stag. He knows the location, and had to lead the entire tracking crew in the wrong direction. I didn't think this fantasy book would be so centered on their romance. Mal and Alina have a great story to tell. It wasn't some cheesy love at first sight thing. They had chemistry. They had a lot of it. The tension between them was even more than Alina and the Darkling. I love the friendship of Mal and Alina. It was a delightful addition to the plot. They reminisce about the time spent with Ana Kuya. While with Mal, Alina has an epiphany. Yes, she was tested to see if she was Grisha as a child. She felt the power being pulled out against her will. however, she realized what this meant. It meant a separation from Mal. She would never see him again. He would be here all alone. She faught against the amplifier with everything she had inside her. And for some crazy reason. It worked. She loved Mal enough to hide her Grisha abilities. She hid the fact from herself. She told herself she was human so many times that she started to believe it. Alina and Mal search for the Stag together. During the journey, Alina asks an uncomfortable favor from Mal. More than uncomfortable, it was devastating. Alina knows what will happen if the Darkling finds the Stag and puts the antler collar on her. She will have no choice to obey. To guide him in it mad search for power. She asked Mal to killer her before the Darkling got ahold of her. It was a really deep moment for the two of them and their relationship. She asked the for the one thing that he could not supply. But he agreed anyway. When they find the Stag, Mal goes to bring it down. Alina has a split second to make the kill, because the Darkling and his forces are close. So , so close. And Alina can't do it. She can't kill the helpless animal. In this moment of weakness, the Darkling arrives and murders it. The life drains out of the Stag and the Darkling demands the antlers be cut to make the amplifier. Alina and Mal are taken hostage. The collar is places around Alina's neck and the Darkling takes control. The group makes a return to the Little Palace. Nobody knows the real reason that Alina left. She begs the Darkling to show mercy to Mal, and he refuses. He tells Alina that Mal will be left in the Fold to die. The night that Alina spends in the jail cells with Mal was very touching. They could only hold hands through the bars. The destruction of Mal was coming, and there wasn't anything either of them could do to change it. This moment in their relationship was heartbreaking. I had fallen in love with Mal, and was going to be devastated if something happened to him. When the group of Grisha and soldiers make their way out onto the Fold, we witness the true horror of the Darkling. As he uses Alina to take out the Volcra, he is completely ruthless. After this night on the boat, the Darkling is one of my most hated villains in fantasy. Alina is a fighter. She fights every time the Darkling takes her powers. It's just not enough. The Darkling uses his own powers and extends the Fold into the nearby village. At this second, he turns into a true monster. He kills everyone in the village to extend the Fold. He leaves them to the Volcra. The Darkling's character development is surreal. He is horrifying and terrible. He acts in a strange and calm manner, which just makes it worse. He went from a leader that I respected to an awful, merciless monster. The other Grisha are surprised by the plan of the Darkling, but nobody will help Alina. She must fight this battle on her own. Mal is tossed out of the boat and the Darkling forces Alina to pull her light away from him, leaving his to the ravenous Volcra. Alina isn't finished, though. Her second epiphany is ever more powerful than the first. She realizes that she has the right to the amplifier collar as much as the Darkling does. She showed the Stag mercy, which the Darkling would never be able to do. Mercy wins over murder. She finds her power again. The Darkling's grasp is easy to shrug off and she rescues Mal, leaving the ship and the Darkling to die in the Fold. This book was fantastic. It deserves every star it got. I am thrilled to read more from Leigh Bardugo. This author is so talented. This world was painted with love, friendship and power. Shadow and Bone is a rare piece of work. It's one of those books that you can read over and over and over. I recommend it to everyone, not just fantasy fans. It has everything. Action, adventure, romance and twists. Pick up a copy because you won't regret it. Join Mal, Alina, and the wretched Darkling in the adventure of a lifetime.

So let me first just say that FANTASY is NOT my genre of choice. Like, not at all. Usually when I read books with fantasy in them I skip over all the new words and phrases, mythical creatures and spells until I reach the romance. Gasp. I know. I'm a terrible person. But Shadow and Bone restored my faith in fantasy novels!!! I was hooked early on in the story, and by 10% I knew I would give this book a 5. I LOVE the heroine, Alina. I felt she was so relatable and wasn't annoying, self-sacrificing, or whiney. SHE WAS REAL! I loved her humor, her honesty and her insecurities. I felt her. I honestly cannot say much due to spoilers, but boy oh boy this book has some great twists and turns. I would absolutely recommend it! It's a ride and I am very much looking forward to book two. There are many marvelous quotes that I highlighted while I was reading, but I can't share them here because they would give too much away. So,I choose instead a few which are fairly vague, but still beautifully written. "I feel a sudden rush of pure certainty wash over me. I stop struggling. A call rings through me. Something within me rises up to answer. I can't breathe. It's like I"m kicking up from the botom of a lake, about to break the surface, my lungs aching for air. I make my choice." "The thought filled me with grief, grief for the dreams we'd shared, for the love I'd felt, for the hopeful girl I would never be again. That grief flooded through me, dissolving a knot that I han't even known was there." "This was his soul made flesh, the truth of him laid bare in the blazing sun, shorn of mystery and shadow." Great read. Excellent job Leigh!!!

You can tell by the beautiful book design and the decision to publish under the prestigious Henry Holt imprint that Macmillan had a lot of confidence in this book, the first from author Leigh Bardugo. That confidence was not misplaced. Fantasy is a hard genre to get right. Satisfying storytelling requires conflict and limitations. If the limits of magic are not made clear, if the rules that govern the fantasy world seem arbitrary or lack method, the whole thing collapses in on itself. At the same time, the real world is a vibrant and contradictory place. If the fantasy world lacks texture and confusion, the end produce will feel stale and lifeless. The additional demands of the teen fantasy subgenre, aimed since "Twilight" at teenage girls, would almost seem to make a successful final product a fool's errand. But Bardugo has managed it. Most fantasy, from King Arthur through Tolkien all the way up to "A Song of Ice and Fire"/"Game of Thrones", has a medieval Western European lineage to it. The world of "Shadow and Bone" is an original creation, but the land of Ravka is strongly rooted in Russian culture, language and folklore. It's an inspired decision that generates interest and curiosity even before the world building has begun. With a very Scandinavian neighbor to the north and a Mongolian neighbor to the South, I had a lot of fun trying to pick out places where parts of the real world I'm less familiar with had been woven into the story. Otherwise the world has many of the tropes you'd expect from fantasy: royalty, soldiers, clerics and mages. These story elements are so familiar they can feel perfunctory, and if the world isn't well thought out they can even feel a bit like cardboard cutouts. Instead, the world of Ravka has a real sense of history and folklore and politics. The vast divide between the rich and the poor, mirroring the later years of Czarist Russia, is richly developed. There is a seemingly rigid class system with rules that shift and bend in surprising and satisfying ways. The supporting characters are fully developed, with hardly any characters that seem to exist only because the plot requires them. So many fantasy novels seem to get smaller and smaller as they barrel toward the conclusion, with the mythology of the world expanded only large enough to account for the demands of the story arc. It's a mark in this book's favor that the revelations raise more questions than answers. The magic of this world is governed by sharp, almost scientific rules. Whenever magic is used, we understand exactly how and why it could be. At the same time, it's never reduced to simple 1+1=2 arithmetic. Even the most powerful wielders of magic don't fully appreciate all of the implications. But even the most beautifully developed fantasy worlds don't mean a damn without characters you can invest in and a story worth telling. Most teen fantasy heroines combine superficial flaws with a wish fulfillment story arc. The heroine is too fat or too bony or has acne, and this is supposed to make her relatable: the reader is to think, "Hey! She's just like me!" The story arc, where a seemingly ordinary girl finds out she's really the most important person there is, fulfills the desire to be unique and special. Over the course journey, the protagonist's body issues are resolved, she completes her quest and ends up with the perfect guy. But if you're not the target audience, if you're say male and/or over 20, than the body issues seem trite, the quest seems too tidy, and the love interest is so perfect as to be completely uninteresting. With protagonist Alina Starkov, "Shadow and Bone" both embraces and subverts these standard traits. She starts the story too skinny and too weak with bags under her eyes, and eventually becomes beautiful. She has two love interests that seem to vie for her attention. A traumatic event in the first third of the novel reveals that she is indeed the world's only hope for salvation. But I wasn't put off because all of these things are just the tip of the iceberg. Alina's flaws and strengths are more than skin deep. She makes mistakes, and she doesn't always learn from them. The novel is written in first-person, and Alina retells her story from some future point with self-deprecation and self-criticism that endear her to the reader. The characters that surround her are no less flawed and no less self-interested. In this world being special just means that everybody wants something from you. Both love interests are flawed in different ways, real ways that create real obstacles. Her decisions have consequences, not just for the lives of others but also for her own soul. They say power corrupts, and as Alina's power grows so too does the potential for corruption. The possibility that Alina could save the world but destroy herself is a very real one. Enough of the real world intrudes to keep the sense of escapism at bay. I was thrilled to discover that this was the first of a trilogy. From the first sentence, I was entranced. Through the end of the novel, my suspension of disbelief was complete. There are few great fantasy novelists, and the debut of another one is cause for celebration.

ALL the stars go to this novel. ALL. I have never read an epic fantasy novel quite like it. The Imperial Russian-esque qualities and backdrop to the world building was riveting and vastly unique and left me longing for more. Although Ravka, Shu Han, and Fjerda embody an old world feel familiar to epic fantasy, the modern twists were sublime and refreshing to this genre. I can't wait to dive into Siege and Storm and Ruin and Rising. The Grisha fascinate me and perfectly reflected the have and have-not war-torn lands and societies of the Russian-like fantasy realm. Even in the elite there is a caste system. The characters remain consistent throughout the novel. As they grow and stretch and face their dreams and nightmares, the essence of who they are remain. So often characters shed their personality as their character/story arc nears completion. But in Shadow and Bone, their personalities became "amplified." (ahem, you'll know what I mean when you read the story. And you want to. Alina and Mal's story is beautiful and deep.) The bonus features were awesome. Loved the letter from Mal and the Q&A with the author, Leigh Bardugo. She's a hoot! Her quirky humor, interests, and story-driven coming-of-age years speaks to me. Highly recommended.

Shadow & Bone by Leigh Bardugo is a young adult novel set in an alternative world. The HUNGER GAMES would be a great read-alike suggestion.The alternative world would appeal to people with a broad range of interests including those that like books set during the Middle Ages period, dragon books like ERAGON, or dystopian societies.The GOLDEN COMPASS crowd would like it too. Although I was "put off" by the way Genya felt Alina needed to improve her appearance, it fits well into the young adult social scene. It would be a great topic for discussion. How often are teens pressured by their friends to try new lipstick, fingernail polish, or get a tattoo? It actually reminded be of THE UGLIES….don't you want to be pretty? ;-) I thought the "sexualization of power" aspect was a fascinating character and plot element. Again, it would be a great topic for teen discussions because it's very much a part of the "real-world." I think it's a very appropriate topic for teens in a world where everything seems to be sexualized, but rarely actually discussed. I thought the "sailing into the sunset" ending was a perfect setup for a sequel. Almost too perfect, I almost broke into a laugh. Overall it was an engaging story and I look forward to the sequel.

The Quick & Dirty: Alina and Mal survived the journey across the Unsea and are working as civilians in order to raise enough money to help them increase the distance between them and the Darkling. Unfortunately, they don't blend in as well as they thought and it isn't long before the Darkling captures them and begins the search for a second amplifier. What's to Like? Once again, Leigh Bardugo demonstrates her superior skills as an author. If Shadow & Bone was great, Siege & Storm is phenomenal. Bardugo manages to write elegant yet simple prose, a talent that eludes most YA authors who tend to dumb down their language, effectively insulting their target audience. Her pacing is perfect. At no point was I ready to set the book down yet, at the same time, I never felt like I was being pushed along without a moment to process. There was a nice flow to the story. What most surprised me was the growth experienced by Alina. I was a little curious as to how Bardugo would develop Alina's character. Would she go the easy route and write her as that rare creature: the self-sacrificing, overly-concerned-about-everyone-else teenager? Would she fail completely and allow Alina's character to stagnate? No. Not Leigh Bardugo. While the Alina we came to know in Shadow & Bone was a typical teenager (discounting the fact that she can harness the power of the Sun), the Alina of Siege & Storm is layered, complex. She is hardened, confused, intelligent, bold, scared, selfish, and selfless. In short: she is a character we want to read about and route for. But the magnificence of this sequel does not stop there. Bardugo has introduced new characters to charm us and brought back old characters who make us wonder. There are new plot twists and the world of Ravka is slowly unveiled. What I Didn't Like: I read Siege & Storm in a day...and now I have to wait a year to read Ruin & Rising. The Final Word: Fans of The Hunger Games and Divergent should really consider reading this series if they haven't already. I personally think this is better than either series as the writing is stronger and the world is more original. While Shadow & Bone was an excellent read and left me begging for more, Siege & Storm blew me away. The world of Ravka and the mind of Leigh Bardugo is absolutely breathtaking! http://www.christywrites.com

Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo. Wow. 'Scuse me while I just ... ruminate. (did I use that right? :S) I loved it. No question. But it was ... different. Lets Start With The Good ... 1. The Darkling. Wow. I *know* I shouldn't like him, but wow ... Yep, he's awesome. 2. The MC. She was awesome, and I could understand her a lot better than I could many other teen MC's. 3. Mal. *ahem* Uh huh, he was awesome. 4. The sheer sweetness of the beginning and the end. 5. WTH was *with* that ending? HUH? I mean, com'on. Really. I need the next one ... 6. ... Genya. She was just awesome. Now, the Bad ... 1. To be completely honest, the writing was a little irritating, but it got it's point across, and I AM a writing snob lol. And I could just be thinking that because it was really late at night when I read it too. 2. I would have loved more minor character attention. More quirks. I kinda felt like they were the generic, silly, kinda rude friends that show up a lot these days. 3. ... It was a little superhero-y, but also understandable, and most interesting. Alright, so I loved it. I'm ordering it in Hardback, because I do that for books I love lol. Now, for the content, there was pretty much nothing. A few mild innuendos. A few kisses ;) I appreciate the Hero a lot Leigh Bardugo, because it gets annoying when the Hero's are nothing but hot guys and good kissers. The Hero (num 2), was perfectly unperfect. Loved. Grand total: Writing: 6/10, (but hey, the more books that get written the better the writing gets. I can't wait for the next one!) Content: Mild Plot: Like nothing I have ever read before. Characters: Perfectly wonderful And the COVER? Wow. After reading the book I realize they couldn't have done it better, and I loved the cover even before that. Can't wait to see what the second one looks like! Happy Reading!

This book had me hoping and fearing on a roller coaster of emotions. You know those books you read and the hero/heroine's voice sounds predictable and not really believable at all? Like, their thought processes seem kind of juvenile? These characters aren't like that at all. Alina is so real and genuine, and the banter between her and those around her, especially her best friend Mal, sounds like you really are watching real relationships. All of the characters feel like they're people you know in real life, which makes their struggles more realistic and they suck you into their lives and you feel everything they're feeling. This book is one of magic and fear and friendship and deceit and power. It's a unique story, and one that upon finishing, I'd already bought the second book in the trilogy without even thinking twice about it. Between the magical Grisha, the powerful Darkling, the Shadow Fold where the darkness is impenetrable and monstrous winged creatures lie in wait to rip into human flesh, and Alina coming to know who/what she is and the power she holds, you'll find yourself ensnared in the tangled life in Ravka and you won't want to leave. It grabs you and just when you think you know what's going to happen, the plot twists and you're left struggling right along with Alina. It's a true talent that an author can have a story set so deep in fantasy, yet turns out to be more realistic than stories set in the real world. I LOVE this story, and it's earned a distinct 5/5 stars in my book ;)

Simply saying this book was amazing just doesn't do it justice. Leigh Bardugo sucked me in to the fantasy world she created and didn't let me go until the last page. First of all, I loved the characters in the book. It's rare that I'm not annoyed with at least one of the characters in a book I'm reading at some point, but I wasn't. Alina was a kick ass heroine whose coveted talent modestly came to fruition over the course of the story. Her emotions were raw, humble and refreshingly honest as she came to realize her abilities and the weight of what's expected of her, not to mention her feelings for those around her, including the Darkling and Mal. The author truly does a great job balancing out the positive and negative between both Mal and the Darkling (who was impossible NOT to love too, by the way). I feel that most authors don't do a great job creating a good balance with love triangles, but Leigh does it beautifully - I was truly torn between who I wanted to be with her, even when I knew Mal was the better fit. The relationship between Alina and Mal is bittersweet and expressed most beautifully through Alina's poignant revelry of her childhood days with Mal when she began to realize how she felt about him. The Darkling is the 'bad boy' whose intentions are questionable throughout much of the book. He can give Alina things she's never dreamed of (and is pretty hot, all the girls want him, but he only sees Alina, you get the picture...) but can you really tame the bad boy? Aside from the angsty love triangle and sweet plot, I found myself in absolute awe at how the beautiful prose and how Leigh kept me guessing until the very end. I literally can't wait to get my hands on the next book in the series and would recommend this book to A-N-Y-O-N-E who knows how to read!

I gave five stars because I like the author's writing style .. and the fact that she captured my attention by combining the real world (of War within religion and politics) and the world of Fantasy. I watched the Netflix version first and was interested enough to seek out the book..although I found the Netflix version lacking ..and I do not like where it differs from the original. Decent read overall. Will seek out the rest ..

As a male who leans a certain way, politically, I find it hard to find good books that are coming out that don't have some agenda against people with my faith, background, and worldview. This is an amazing story that truly captures what an Adventure Fantasy tale should consist of! I find myself loving each character and trying to picture everything that Leigh Bardugo writes. I am impressed with their descriptive writing style and cannot wait to begin reading the next book!

Awesome. I enjoyed every minute of this book and I can’t wait to pick up the next in the series. I love the characters, and the dynamic between the Darkling and Alina is fantastic. The magical system is fascinating and complex, a combination between the more ‘pure’ magic found in typical fantasy and science. And the setting is exotic and fascinating... no ‘middle-earth’ to be found here, rather she took inspiration from Russia and crafted her own world from elements of this one. I enjoyed the development of the characters themselves. The Darkling is fascinating (I adore bad guys who I love to hate, or hate to love, or some combination therein, and he fits the bill!), and Alina herself, a shy strip of a girl with little confidence growing into something quite different was great to read. Many other reviewers did not like Alina, seeing her as too weak, but I saw this quite differently than they. I saw her as a girl who knows she is something different, and longs for and strives to make that not so. She is a disguised superhero, perhaps not yet fully aware of the extent of her gifts, but she knows it is there, and she knows with great gifts come great responsibility an being ‘normal’ isn’t such a bad thing after-all. I was absorbed from the first page and cannot wait to pick up the second in the series and see where the story takes these fascinating characters and discover the secrets of the The Fold.

It's rare that a book grabs me from the outset anymore, but as soon as I turned to the first page this one did. There's a quality to the writing that is uncommon in YA fantasy; the prose is practiced and fluid. Some think the book is just another "girl wants pretty clothes" book (though she really doesn't) or a typical love triangle, but it is not. I loathe love triangles. This is an innocent being used by an ancient being and waking up to reality to find her one true friend is still standing by her side. There's no "should it be him or the other?" here. What she feels in consistent with who and when and where she is at that point. I enjoyed that the author spent time with all the characters, making them individuals, through the eyes of the heroine. There was little cliche, and what there was was turned on is head. I read a lot, hundreds of books a year. Most aren't that special. This one is a standout.

Wow, this was awesome! The first in a trilogy, I guess it's kind of alternate history set in the past? Some people, called Grishas, have powers that enable them to manipulate fire, water, blood, metals, light, dark. Alina, a poor orphan who joins the army, discovers she has a rare power during a battle, and is taken to the Grisha palace, to study and live. The Grisha are led by The Darkling, who is a wonderfully gray, ambiguous character, yet attractive and alluring. Mal is her childhood best friend she was separated from during the battle where her power was discovered. Things don't go so great for Alina at first, but she eventually learns to use her power and makes friends. And then something huge happens and the whole story changes in an unexpected way! Fantastic world-building ... it was such a page-turner, just wonderful. The writing isn't complicated, but the way the story is told is just captivating. If you like Young Adult fantasy-adventure, this one is definitely worth reading. There are some romantic elements, but no angst, and the female protagonist isn't annoying, which is a huge plus. I can't wait to read the next one.

I first picked up this book as a 5-chapter sample; it was free and the description intrigued me. The moment I finished the last word of the sample, I immediately searched Amazon for the full book. I was drawn in by the characters, and the world-building was amazing. The author was able to craft a world that felt true. Often with fantasy worlds, some detail or character jars the reality of the made up universe; this was not the case in Shadow and Bone. I was able to remain in the realm of this story from start to finish, despite having to put the book down a few times. Each of the main characters felt whole; while I would have loved to learn more about them, they did not feel undone or half-baked. And each of them elicited an emotional response, whether it was sympathy, annoyance, anger, or hope, something many authors fail to accomplish or they do so poorly. The plot kept me reading, eager to find out what happened next, and while some parts were anticipated, others were not, which kept the story fresh. When I finished the last line of the book, I was disappointed... that I was done. I wanted the story to continue. Thankfully, the next book picks up where Shadow and Bone left off.

A new world has been created in this book full of magic, romance and... Russians! Alina Starkov is an orphan in a Russian-like world called Ravka, that is filled with magical beings call Grisha's. As a child ages they are tested to see if they have magic within to one day become a Grisha. When Alina, and fellow orphan friend Mal, are tested they both come back as negative for any sort of power. Unfortunately, or maybe fortunately for the reader, Alina's test result was false. Years later, Mal and Alina are part of the Ravka Army. They are about to cross the fold, a shadow-like divide that parts the country of Ravka in two. Because of this the country is greatly weakened, needing Grisha to help destroy the monsters within whenever anyone needs to pass. As the soldiers pass, they are overwhelmed by monsters, forcing Alina's hidden power to erupt from her in order to save her best friend Mal. "Sun Summoner" is the name she is dubbed as she is able to unleash a blinding light from her body to combat the darkness. And so truly begins the novel, as Alina is whisked away to train to become a Grisha and eventually save the world of Ravka. Of course, there is intrigue along the way, consisting of a mysterious priest, a handsome leader of the Grisha, and a country that is led by a king with no real power. This novel captivated me from the moment Alina met the Darkling, leader of the Grisha. He is a charismatic and intriguing character, whose actions are hard to understand. I read to get to the scenes between him and Alina, as they were so filled with tension and confusion I had to know what would happen. The magic within this book is described and shown in an interesting way. Each Grisha has their own specialties. They can do everything from enhance one's beauty to summon fire. It is said that the magic each Grisha exudes reflects their soul. Obviously this is something that will come more into play later, as Alina's power is that of light that will dispel darkness, or good that will display evil. Is Alina really that pure and good that her power is that of light? I'm a little skeptical so far, but am fine seeing how it all plays out. I don't want to say too much more, as it could ruin the book. It truly is a rollercoaster. Another reviewer said the novel was too predictable. I don't know if it was because I read this so fast, or had a very clear picture of what I WANTED to happen, but I did not guess the ending until it was too late! That does not mean it wasn't a good ending - the only thing bad about it was it was cut off, leaving me wondering where Alina would be going next! Luckily the next novel comes out this week. I was lucky I waited to read this one. I highly recommend this book to anyone that likes magic, fantastical worlds, and of course a little romance.

Despite thinking about it a lot, I can't actually figure out exactly why I loved this book so much. Sometimes everything simply clicks perfectly and inexplicably into place, and that is how I felt about "Shadow and Bone." It has all of the classic qualities that make a good book: good writing, crisp believable dialogue, nice pacing, unexpected twists, characters that are very interesting. But I could easily use those words to describe books that I love much less than "Shadow and Bone," so why did I love it so much? What were those extra ingredients that made it something greater? The Darkling: He is so cliched in so many ways, and yet he absolutely captivated me. I couldn't get enough of him. In a way, he makes the novel, he is the novel. The world: Leigh Bardugo eases the reader slowly into the world of Ravka and the Grisha, so that the terms and ideas don't ever seem overwhelming, even though many are initially foreign. Alina: She is a solid, likeable, flawed but resourceful, young woman. I liked her as a main character. The message: Without giving up any of the plot, this novel does carry a good message for young women regarding romance, mercy, and staying true to their own destinies. Was that vague enough? I didn't want to spoil anything. Oddly, I can completely understand why someone wouldn't like this novel, because it is similar to a lot of the young adult novels out there, but I loved it.

The characters and the world building are amazing. The story is completely engaging and makes the end of the first volume heart rending as the next volume awaits. I started reading this after streaming the first season of the series. There is much more character here than in the series yet both are good - just slightly different versions of the same story.

Is what a great book! It flows very smoothly, the style of writing is very easy to fall into and want to keep reading. I'm usually not a fan of books that don't keep my attention with lots of action or adventures. But this book has action, storytelling, adventure, and it does seem to invest you in the live to the people that are written about. Can't wait to read the next one.

It capture me from the beginning and kept hold until the end.. it did get a little slow in the middle but not in a bad way.. But I still loved the six of crows alot better.. --Spoilers Below-- Idk why but I was so rooting for the Darkling and I still have high hopes for him in the next one..Fingers crossed..lol I just couldn't get into her relationship being something more than friendship with Mal..

I found this series to be very well written. It is YA, so be aware of what you are getting into. The constant friction/tension/lack of communication between the H and h is tedious, but overall a fun series worth the read. Ending was also a bit anti-climatic. Still giving it 5 stars for being a fun read.

What I Liked Story What a story, I'm so glad this is going to be a trilogy and we still have two more books of this awesome high fantasy world Leigh has created. The whole story and concept was intriguing and interesting, I was never bored and always wanting more. Character Alina: I really liked her character, I liked that when we meet her she wasn't the typical heroine. Alina isn't pretty, isn't popular or good at anything really, she is just plain unnoticed Alina; until she does something extraordinary to save her best friends life. Only once she learns about her hidden abilities does Alina finally get to shine and prove herself to the world and herself. Team Boy Not the typical team boy, but you have Alina interested in both, Mal her best childhood friend who hasn't noticed her and the new mysterious Darkling who is paying Alina lots of extra attention. The Darkling is tempting to root for, but I was always rooting for Mal to show back up into the story. Didn't Like . . . I have to wait for the next book and I can't have it now. Recommendation Must read this high fantasy debut series

A beautifully written and narrated book! I have to admit that I was led to the author from a preview of the new Netflix series. I decided to abandon the series until I finished the first book. Last night, after finishing book one, I went back to watch episode one. It wasn't the imagery that I created in my mind. The book is almost fairytale-like. Episode one gave the book a much darker spin. On to book two...

This book was amazing! I didn't know what to expect going into it. It did take a little bit to get going, and I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about it. Mostly, I think it was the language that had me uneasy in the beginning. I didn't know what any of the terms they used were, and I hate not knowing, but slowly, I picked up all the words and around that time, the plot of the book thickened and I was hooked. I fell so hard for the Darkling. He was dark and brooding and he was so misunderstood. And then, to find out that he is the bad guy! My heart broke into a million pieces and I'm still trying to put them back together. And what was worse, all these characters that I had fallen for as well, Genya and Ivan, everyone, they didn't care! They let him kill people and hurt Aliana and be horrible! I am so glad that her and Mal were able to get away, and I can't wait to find out what happens in the next book.

I absolutely loved this book and can't wait foe the next one! Loved the folkloric quality to the story. All of the details so perfectly written as to paint a picture that swept you up and transported you to magical foreign lands. Loved the mystical elements woven throughout the story. The characters were rich and complex. I mean the Darkling had me second guessing myself through half of the book questioning whether or not he was truly really evil? I love it when a writer can lead the reader down winding twisting roads where the reader has to feel and think and figure, you? Where things are not just laid out in plain straight forward answers. I loved the main characters and their story, their relationship. How it was forged through years of friendship and hardships. How they remained true to each other and was written to honestly and properly convey those qualities, those emotions. How were as reader got to witness the evolving of their relationship and swept away with them. I mean so many of the scenes between Mal and Alina had me dabbing at my eyes or wrenching my palms! Loved it all and can't wait for the next book.

I bought this book because I lived the TV series on Netflix. I know book and shows based off them are always a bit different which they are so don't expect the same exact story. I really enjoyed this book; the imagery, the character's portrayals, everything!. Its very well written and I thoroughly enjoyed it! Highly recommend! Can't wait to finish the rest of the series.

I began my journey in the wrong order having read 6 of crows and crooked kingdom 1st. Now going back to the beginning where I should have began I am awe struck and the beautiful rich tear of ping world that she has created it This is taking me to 2 days to read my second.

I started the beginning of this book loving it even with the knowledge that the plot was kind of predictable. About halfway through I really started getting some surprises thrown in there! It was definitely addicting and I'm upset I don't have the next book! I'll just have to get it! Now i can at least watch the series on Netflix with the book's knowledge in the background!

I'm with Veronica Roth 1000%...I've never read anything like Shadow and Bone...ever! This book was unexpected, to say the least. It's the story of Alina, known her whole life for being plain, scrawny, & unremarkable. Since her days as one of the young orphans who was rescued from war-torn Ravka by a benevolent Duke, she's been overlooked by almost everyone, except Mal, her best friend and fellow orphan. (There's an historic Eastern-European feel to the setting).It was at the Duke 's estate where she and Mal were tested by three beautiful and mysterious Grisha, aka loyal followers of The Darkling, who was the most powerful Grisha of them all. The Grishas' special abilities, such as creating wind and fire, were crucial in attemping to cross The Shadow Fold, a dark, deadly, and abomination-filled layer of fog-like substance (said to have been created by a previous Darkling) which blocks the route to Western Ravka, where most of the country's food and supplies are located. The Shadow Fold is where Alina's destiny lies. A part of the story that's just as important in my opinion is the story of Alina and Mal- to watch the roller coaster that is their friendship/relationship was an experience that hit me emotionally in all of the right places. Also intriguing is her love/hate relationship with The Darkling. Once it's discovered that the skinny girl with dark circles under her eyes possesses the most powerful offensive skill of all to defeat the Shadow Fold, it's an exciting, hopeful, heartbreaking, sexy, mysterious ride to the end; can't wait until the next book in this series!

I have no doubt that Leigh Bardugo and I would be kindred spirits if we ever met… but onto Shadow and Bone. Devoured it! Alina Starkov reminded me of one of my favorite characters in George R. R. Martin’s Song of Ice and Fire series: Aria Stark. (A.S. are some badass initials, I’ll tell you what!) I liked Alina even better than Aria. She’s tough, but sensitive; well-mannered and rebellious, and quick-witted in her own quiet way. I have to admit, like Alina, I was smitten with the Darkling at first. At one point I was even like, Mal, Mal who? Props to Bardugo for drawing me into that dark hunk of a mystery man even knowing Mal was the true blue friend and only boy worthy of Alina’s love. And props to Alina for having the courage to flee the comforts of the palace to save the world from evil. I love the sinister and magical elements of Ravka. I’ve always loved magic and fantasy and it’s a real treat to read something truly unique.

My video review, where I cook some "Shadow and Bone" inspired recipes can be found here on my youtube channel, pwdecker. I really liked "Shadow and Bone" by Leigh Bardugo. Ravka is a very interesting world with a unique, but Russian influenced, feel. It is inhabited by Grisha, who each have special abilities. Some control the elements. Others can heal people or stop their hearts. Their leader is The Darkling. Bardugo did a good job of making the characters feel real. There were many grey characters and characters with unknown agendas. The minor characters were well rounded. The artwork both on the cover and within the book is beautiful. I really like the map. It sets the mood for the novel. The Unsea's volcra illustrations are creepy, but they give a good image to the reader. I am looking forward to the next book in The Grisha Trilogy, Seige and Storm. I want to see more of The Apparat, David, and Baghra. I give this novel a 5/5. If you like Young Adult Fantasy, this is a must read!

I have wanted to read this book for a long time but always put it back on the "to read" shelf. I even read Six of Crows first and that is what got me hooked on the Grishaverse. The story grabs you from the very beginning. Alina is a character that is easy to love and I found myself rooting for her as she is the underdog and not really noticed by anyone, including her unrequited love, Mal. The book takes you on Alina's journey of becoming a famed Grisha. I am also in love with the Darkling, just going to toss that out there! This is a must read!

An excellent addition to a school classroom or library—or as a fun book to read. The world building is intriguing, particularly the idea that the Grisha (who have special powers) range from being hated in some countries, enslaved in others, and revered in some. The entire series is character driven with complex people and emotions.

Omg! For those of you who haven’t read this series you are seriously missing out. It’s beautifully written, the plot is amazing and I even found myself falling for the villain in this series. It’s fantastic, I can’t wait until it comes on Netflix. When I saw the collectors addition I got so excited and purchased it right away. It’s a stunning book, I love the white with good foil detail, LOVE IT!

I Read this straight thru after watching the first episode on TV and not liking it. My literary son told me to read the books. I have loved YA books for a long time and I am 72! My all time favorite books are Robert Jordan’s Wheel of Time- all 14 books which I reread two or three times a year. These books are enchanting and I highly recommend them!

So happy I followed up after watching your stories on netflix, you just never know what happens between page and screen. Wonderful fantasy stories and while written as a young adult story, I was pleased to see the protagonists only make the mistakes of in experience. Loved the world build and the magic system! and devoured each book in a day!

I hate to start with a negative, but the one and only thing I don't like about this book is that the 2nd and 3rd books are not out yet, and it is driving me crazy not being able to finish this story! I started this book and was so captivated I read it in 2 sittings. I could not put it down. I am not a heavy reader, and a book has to be very good and not have any slow spots for me to enjoy and finish it. This book made me turn to the next page. I didn't have a choice, I had to see what was next, and that is a rare find for me. I see a lot of parallels between this and the Hunger Games. Both are well written and have similar plots (totally different settings and types of stories) and if you enjoyed the Hunger Games, I think you will enjoy this book as well. I would be more specific on their similarities, but I don't want to give any spoilers away, but if you read the 2 books, then they would be obvious to you. Well worth the $$$ and I will be getting the 2nd book the day it comes out.

Bardugo built an immersive world of magic and mystery. The characters were fun and diversified. Looking forward to reading more in the next books. Also, the narrator of the audiobook did a great job with the foreign words and accents. Although, I do feel like I need a glossary of all the unique terms they use throughout the book.

I have been wanting to try this author. Got this book during a kindle promotion. I really enjoyed the story line and character building. Would have loved a story about when main characters were kids and what they went through instead of flash backs. I haven't looked at the other books of this series so it may be there. Would definitely recommend this book if you like magic and fantasy.

I didn’t expect to get SO into this story. The last few chapters felt like plot twist after plot twist, on top of a raggedy ship of unexpected…everything. I’m just…my jaw is on the floor. I cannot wait to read book 2!!!!!! I gotta know what happens next because what a CLIFF HANGER!!!

Alina and Mal had grown up together as orphans. He had always seemed to find his place. He grew into himself and was a confident stud, who had a knack for being a Tracker. Alina never felt like she had a place. She felt like an outsider to the world she knew. She was always tired, haggard looking, and sickly. All that changes when Alina goes into the The Fold. Alina was an interesting character to read about. I found that her character development through the book was well paced and a true roller coaster to read through. Her feeling for Mal in the beginning of this novel were hidden, probably never to be told if not for them being separated because of her new power. The power that potentially could save the world. Alina had met the Darkling. Her complete opposite in terms of power. She had been drawn to him but never forgot fully about Mal. I liked how Alina struggled, that she had doubts and lashed out. It made her human to me. Even more so towards the end. She made mistakes but she kept to them, even if she would regret them for the rest of her life. Mal was another character that I really wanted to know more about. Although we did get to learn more about the missing time between the two, I just like him so much I wish I could get more. He also matures in this book, from a traumatic experience, yes, but still maturing. The other supporting characters in the novel highlighted the good things that I liked about the main characters. It helped Alina grow as a person, especially when she was at the Tiny Palace. Genya was a character that I loved. You couldn't blame her for the choices she made. She had arrived at the Tiny Palace at a young age and had been susceptible to the Darkling. She just wanted to have a better life for herself. I think that she was truly friends with Alina. It was something that I enjoyed seeing throughout the novel between the two of them. The plot of this novel at some points seemed slow moving but proved to have a greater purpose in the end. The overall plot to the series leaves promise of what is to come. If I had to liken this novel to anything that I have read, it would probably be like Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard, which I also really liked. The only reason I say this is because both settings are similar. Both females protagonists have latent powers that they didn't know about and they are both are swept away into the royal status of the elite in society. Another similarity is the love triangle and how that dynamic works out for the overarching plot of the series and to where it will lead inevitably in the end. The promise of what is to come in the next book is intriguing. I don't know what will come of Mal and Alina as they made their journey across the sea, in hopes of stopping the Darkling. Will the Amplifier be advantageous for them or will it be a deterrent for Alina's growth? What will come of the oncoming war between the Darkling and Alina? At what cost? I guess we'll find out.

This novel was hard to put down. The characters are memorable and the plot and setting are unique. The story is definitely a roller coaster ride. I will definitely be buying the next book in the series. The Grishas bring a new magic system and the Darkling is the newest villain in a genre that has plenty of both. I love the Russian folktale setting, also.

I am in love with this series. Absolutely in love. I watched the show on Netflix first before starting to read the books. I am obsessed with it now. This book was so good. I don't understand how people gave this book a bad review. Yes the netflix advertising is annoying, but the book itself is amazing. I couldn't put the book down. 100% recommend

I bought this book based on a recommendation from a Facebook group, and because I watched the trailer for the Netflix series. I can't imagine that the series will do this book justice, but the novel is amazing. Great world-building, amazing characters, and an interesting magic system. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.

I put this review on the wrong book originally. I just started reading the 2nd book. This is my review of the first book Shadow and Bone. Even though the names of the different jobs and places were hard to pronounce in my head and therefore hard to keep them separated, I loved the story. I am one of those that try to predict the story line. This one veered in a different direction and I loved it. The main character was well thought out. This was a very quick read. It can be done in a day and it ends rather abruptly (from my point of view). It made me want to read the second book.

I read after watching the series on Netflix. As usual, the movie was in many ways different, but the core was similar. I loved both versions. The film version I watched from the edge of my seat. Reading book one, I read every word in anticipation of what happens next. Highly recommended. No opinion on watch series first, or books. Will leave that up to my most intelligent genre fellows.

A lot of world building in this first book but I loved all the detail that Leigh Bardugo put in to this Grishaverse. Very interesting concept that what the Grisha can do isn't considered magic but small science - the breaking down and building up of things. Alina is scarred and lonely and very very relatable. I love her story arch and who she becomes in this series. This book in particular finds her in a gilded cage that she may or may not want to leave. Isn't it easier to stay when she can master her power and gain a sense of purpose? The Darkling is seductive and terrifying and no one should blame Alina for what she feels or does in this book.

I absolutely loved this book! I could read it again if I wanted to. I loved the characters' personalities and Alina was my favorite character because she went from being a normal girl into becoming a hope for all of Ravka. She changed a lot in the story taking more responsibility for her power and as a reader, I love to see that in characters. I bought this book and finished it in a day. It is a page-turner! The Darkling was also another one of my favorite characters even though he was being manipulative I could feel for myself that he actually cared about Alina. I recommend reading the book first before watching the series on Netflix though:)

I totally loved this book! Perfect story and world, great characters! Couldn't put this book down! Can't wait to read the others! My one wish woupd be a longer book, with a little more romantic tension between some of the characters. Loved draw to the character in power and the romantic aspects surrounding that relationship, I just wished there was more of it! (And maybe pushing a little more on the adult side of the romance)

Need I say that I couldn't put this down. This was one of the best books I've read this year. I saw it a long time ago and kept passing it up for something else. Gotta say I am kicking myself now. I was gripped from the very first page and can't wait to get the next book. Leigh Bardugo sure knows how to tell a story, how to make you feel and how to make you believe. The writing is fantastic. She makes you live and gate the characters. You can't help but to find the Darkling so very intriguing and yet you wanna strangle him at the same time. Aliens will make you want to scream sometimes. You just want her to figure it all out and be the champion you know she is capable of. I don't want to accidentally spoil anything or give away any plot lines so I will just say that if you are an avid reader, don't pass this up.

This book was...wow. I came into this Grishavwrse with awkward expectations. I didn’t know what to expect but at the same time I kept reading the summary and was not enthusiastic about reading the actual book. Amazon puts it on sale for $4 and I told myself it was now or never, and I purchased the book. I was hooked by the end of the prologue. I finished that book in one day. I don’t want to spoil anything but lets just say we have a BADASS villain and a surprising heroine. When their worlds collide, we’re all in for a treat. #teamdarkling

I loved it. From beginning to end. I couldn't put it down. Descriptions were right on point it was hard not to picture everything that was happening in your head. It didn't feel like all the other stories I have read out there. I was so caught up on it that I didn't realize it ended.

Take a basic story of a girl in love with her best friend, throw in a dash of an alluring bad boy and a whole ton of awesome fantasy elements and you have Shadow and Bone. In the beginning Alina passes the time making maps at her military camp and swooning over her childhood best friend Mal. She, and everyone else at camp, soon finds out that she possesses a magical power not seen in years. Alina is swept away into a life of luxury by bad boy character the Darkling (yes..the is part of his name). Everything Alina thought she knew about herself has changed. She must find out how to use her power, who the Darkling really is and whether or not Mal is still alive. This tale is beautifully written, creating a dark fantasy world I loved reading about. Book 2 cannot come soon enough!

I'm an avid reader, but before I picked up this book I had been in a complete reading slump. The past few books that I had read were DNF's, and I was thinking I needed a break. But a friend recommended this series to me and mentioned it was also a Netflix series and she wanted to have someone to talk to about the adaptation. I relented and bought Shadow and Bone, and was hooked! I purchased the rest of the series and am now working through her other two. I love the Grisha world, and it's fun Russian elements. 10/10 would read again!

Awesome series. Inventive magic system, which is put to use a lot, unlike many books which make systems where the magic can't be used very often which decreases the fun. Also, the series is quite stressful (in other words: awesome) in respect to the emotional lives of the characters. The inner conflicts of the main characters are well done, although, at times, the characters fall victim to the all-to-common plot device which has the characters not say the things that a normal person would say because the author needs to string out the plot. But there are only a few instances of that. That minor criticism should in no way stop you from reading this excellent book and series.

I got the first book from the library, and the next two were on hold. But even though I would have probably gotten them within a week or two, I just couldn’t wait. I only buy books these days that I plan to re-read often. I bought all three of the trilogy, read the next two, then immediately re-read all of them. They are all extremely well-written in every single way: plot, characters, relationships, dialogue & description. I highly recommend this entire trilogy.

I was glad this came out on my birthday and immediately bought it for myself as a gift. Shadow and Bone was the first book of Leigh's I ever read and I fell in love and had to buy the rest. This collector's edition is the most gorgeous book I've ever laid my eyes on. Maybe because its my first collector's edition.

An engrossing tale of magic, deception, horrors beyond imagining, and never-ending love. A gripping novel. I read it all in one sitting, and now I'm about to buy the other books in the trilogy. I can't wait to see what happens next. Leigh Bardugo is brilliant! Addendum: I bought the two remaining books and couldn't put them down either. I just couldn't wait to see what happened next. I have not been disappointed. This has been a soul satisfying journey and just when everything seems lost in the end...read the books. You won't be sorry. I have to read them again now because I devoured them like a hungry Volcra (are they ever sated?) for my book club. Happy Reading. And I will say it again, Leigh is brilliant.

So I finished Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo last night... I know, I know, I'm a little late to the party, but cut me some slack, a writer has many an adventure to attend to before reading for pleasure. So anyways.... Oh. My. Gosh. I think I have a new favorite ladies and gents! I was pulled in by the history of Mal and Alina and then I was stuck fast by the developing events. I finished this book in record time (for me) as I was unable to put down this adventure and continue with my life. Needless to say, I then went to my nearest internet accessible device and purchased the next two in the Grisha series. (Siege and Storm, Ruin and Rising)

Loved it!!! This is definitely a book to look out for. I loved the characters, the pace of the book, the style of writing, everything! The rich world Alina finds herself in is a beautiful dream with hidden shadows lurking in the corners, and the unfolding of events was beyond amazeballs for me. I didn't see some events coming, and it almost ruined the book for me and my friend (we're hopeless romantics) but it quickly got saved by the next page and whatever next amazing thing that happened. I'd consider this YA because the only heated scene in this involves the mentioning of a thigh (and my strictly-YA-bf read it and didn't die of over-exposure sooo). This feels like a popular book to me, so don't miss out!

I always loved books where authors make up new worlds different from the ones that we live. Shadow and Bone takes place in a magical world ( based on the Russian culture) named Ravka. This is where our main character Alina lives. Orphan since a very young age, she never completely fits in. The only place she can be herself is with her childhood friend and also an orphan, Mal. They both get tested at a young age to see if they have any powers, but things happen and miss something crucial about Alina. So Alina is able to stay and grow up with Mal ... which is exactly what she wanted. Time goes on and they aren't children anymore and so Alina begins to have feelings for Mal, feelings that are stronger than just a friendship. Mal is oblivious to this, but also has deep feelings towards Alina. Mal is known as one of the most talented trackers, very handsome, and very sought after by women. All changes though when Alina in attempt to save Mal's life unleashes a power that no one has seen years. After saving Mal in the Fold, no one knew what to think of Alina, so she was brought to the Darkling, who is the ultimate ruler. She is taken to the castle of the Grisha and then is taught to how to harness her newly found power. Along the way she becomes friends with some Grisha but most are not too happy that she has the Darkling's favor. Most of all she misses Mal. At first my feelings for the Darkling were so contradictory: I hated him but I also loved him. As for Alina, she grows so much as a character in this book. She makes awful mistakes but she learns from them in a very harsh way. This book captures you at the beginning and takes you to a magical incredible new world. I absolutely can not wait for the sequel!

I went into this book completely blind. Nothing but a recommendation and some great but vague reviews. When I tell you this was exactly worth the hype— I mean it. This is my first time reading Leigh and she was able to create a new world that has wisps that reminded me of The Avatar but different still. I wasn’t sure what was going to happen at any given point and moments when I thought I did she pulled the rug from under me and I loved it.

I was pleasantly surprised by this YA book. Number 1, I'm an adult who reads minimal YA books because they just aren't that good for me but I'm so glad I kept up with this one. This book is a total page turner which I love. Lots of story and a lot to the characters. I'm anxiously looking forward to book 2 to know more about who these characters were in their past and who they are becoming. I'm especially anxious to see more dealings between the Darkling and Alina. I'm intrigued to know more about the Darkling. Does he have a name? I totally got sucked into those two, and totally fooled as well. I would also categorize this as fantasy lite which is why I probably enjoyed it. Great summer read, I enjoyed it. Can't wait for book 2 to come out.

This book was amazing. Excellent fantasy novel, I was completely lost it in. I honestly struggled to put the book down to watch the new episode of Game of Thrones, and that means a lot coming from me! The plot like draws you in, moves quickly, and the main character, Alina, is very likeable, relatable, but also enticing. The antagonist is also super compelling and the story line, and the world created, is extremely magical and interesting. Highly recommend this book for anyone that enjoys fantasy!!

This is a book for everyone! Every age. A story of light vs. darkness. A story of how power can corrupt. But it also a tale of the power of love. Love triumphs over all. Highly recommend!

I started reading this because I started watching it on Netflix. As usual the book is better than the show. The pacing is just right to keep me reading without wanting to put the book down. I am going to read the next to find out what happens to Alina and Mal.

I like that there was romance in this book but it wasn’t the one where the protagonist becomes completely powerless in the grip of her “lover”. Other than that the plot was pretty predictable but still fun.

this book has it all... mystery, adventure, betrayal, love, sacrifice. everything! very well written and leaves you wanting for more. it slightly reminds me of Maria v. Snyder's poison study series which I absolutely love. This storyline has been well thought out and the background of the small science is not just left to mystery but is explained and makes the groundwork for the plot to take course. in my opinion this is the book all us fantasy readers look for.... a brand new world with an exciting plot and an emerging hero against the odds. I fell in love with the land, the characters, and the discovery of all is not as it seems. read this book. stop reading my review, and read the book!

Great book. Very engaging. Can't wait to read the next books in the series, definitely. Look forward to watching the Netflix show.

Having seen the series on Netflix, I was curious as to how different the book was. I was not disappointed. A must read for fantasy lovers.

Loved the beginning of this series. Full of action and suspense. Great world building. Lauren Fortgang does an excellent job with the narration. Really made you feel a part of the story. Looking forward to the next book.

GrishaVerse... exciting.... will trickle your imagination. Action and Fantasy with a little romance, can’t go wrong with that! You can have your own Netflix in your mind, the detail will help you picture the scenes. It’s exciting and unpredictable, you will want to flip the pages till the last. Enjoy reading

I love the more detailed thoightw through character s but I am always a sucker for the books come to life shows and would obviously find th book more intriguing I had only gotten to the second episode of the show before I stopped to read.

A veritable matreshka doll of classic concepts packed in the most delightfully nostalgic and perfectly hand-painted aesthetics of her deeply inspirational Grishaverse, Leigh Bardugo begins her acclaimed trilogy with a smashing display of gutsy action and witty humor offset with a delicious bevy of truly tender moments and the ominously blizzarding clouds of the series' domino-toppling and world-altering climax, to which the reader is rushed along in a dramatic storm of pure and wintry genius; and like a fresh sweet roll, it's just about impossible *not* to gobble this tasty treat up in one sitting.

Love what Leigh Bardugo has done with this collector's edition. Beautiful from front cover through to back cover. Every page is wonderfully designed. Now I only wish that there will be a collector's edition for Siege and Storm and one also for Ruin and Rising as well.

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The story is well-paced and Leigh Bardugo did an excellent job on the world building. Alina is a realistic character in how she feels and how she tries to fit into the world around her as well as come into her powers. I like that the story comes full circle with the Before and After and I'm glad I was able to get a copy with the bonus content.

A brilliant story about a land who falls into darkness with evil lurking everywhere. This is a story about a young generation who discover they have abilities only thought to belong to those who where born with beauty and higher nobility. The fight between evil and good. Elementals such as wind, fire, water, shape shifters and fabricators. Kings, Queens and Princes and Princesses rule the land. An evil elemental is trying to takeover with darkness. This story has it all action, love and betrayal.

I watched the Netflix's series season 1 of this book and enjoyed it. The book goes so much deeper . I enjoyed the insight into Alina's journey. She was a relatable soul with tough choices and a young girl's heart.

I couldn't put this book down. True, it had its flaws. Alina was a little annoying in the beginning, as other reviewers had said, because she absolutely refused to believe that she was good for anything. And her transformation was a bit lack-luster... one day she can't do it, the next she can! Also, the end left me wanting more (and not in a good way). But this book had that something special that kept me sucked into it until the wee hours of the morning; saying to myself "just one more page" until I reached the end. Maybe it was the subtle "ugly ducking" type theme, or the shocking turn of events (it's refreshing to be surprised in this genre!). Or perhaps it was the writing itself. The premise was unique and well-thought out, and the world-building was excellent. Whatever it was, when I become this engrossed in a book, it deserves 5 stars!

Absolutely loved this book. Bought the other two from the trilogy as well. It was so exciting and the story gripping enough to keep me into wholeheartedly, I read it in one day. Totally recommend, it is worth the hype.

Really enjoyed reading this book and was sorry I took so long to begin reading it. Secretly in love with the Darkling and hopes he redeems himself. Loved both Alina and Mal and will definitely continue reading the series!

I like the book version better. To many story lines in the series. This world deserves more investigating. On to book 2.

Great read! I love reading different types of stories and this didn’t disappoint! The characters are engaging and very complex. The story itself was addicting. My best friend and I read it in 3 days!

I was captivated by these characters! The story was engaging and the world building strong and complete. I loved that it was set in "Russia"--so unique from most YA fantasies. The male characters were absolutely divine--even the Darkling! The female leads in these books almost always frustrate me and Alina was no different (albeit a little less so), but the interesting cast of supporting characters definitely made up for it! I couldn't wait to read the rest of the series and finished them all in a long weekend.

I only read this book because the Netflix series was so intense. Though Netflix took liberties and wove two storylines together the book was much better than the series and I look forward to the other books.

Truly a masterpiece. Literary art at its finest with deep, loveable, realistic characters in personality and depth of emotion. An imaginative, well written novel that kept me on my toes as it were and left me wanting to read more.

A very good start. Interesting g world and characters, filled with lots of promise and leaves me wanting more. All the classic fantasy elements are there. Magic, Power. Class and romance. Wielded with a perfect style.

You know when you read a good book, you think "that was a good book" and move on to the next? But when you read an awesome book, you think about it for days afterwards? Shadow and Bone is like that for me. I have spent three days reliving it in my head and generally obsessing about it. Now, I don't want to talk it up so much that you have too high expectations that no mortal book could fulfill. It's just that I don't find many books that really get me excited. So. What did I love? I don't even know where to start! First of all, I LOVED the setting. The story takes place in Ravka, a Russian inspired fantasy land. I loved the Russian elements! Bardugo does an amazing job describing Ravka. It is very imaginative. I also loved the characters. Alina is a regular girl who discovers she has Grisha powers. She has to come to terms with this new power and what it means for her. She has a hard time believing in herself at first, but slowly comes into her own. Mal, her best friend and occasional love interest, is also adorable. And The Darkling. What can I say about the Darkling without revealing too much. Just that he's a game changer and such a great character. Speaking of Grisha powers, I loved the different types of Grisha and their powers! You can tell Bardugo put a lot of thought into it. This is definitely in my top 5 reads of 2012 so far. I can't recommend it enough. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

Wonderful book! The plot is an old one, but felt fresh and unexpected. The storyline grabs you, having you experience everything with the characters. I highly recommend reading it and plan to purchase the others.

Following Avina on this journey has been quite the adventure full of ups and downs. The Grishaverse will definitely hook you in and not let go. Diving into the second book to see what awaits.

The land of Ravka has been decimated by the Shadow Fold; a mysterious consequence of dark magic which blights the landscape in monsters and darkness. The people of this tormented land have not known peace for generations. While attempting to cross the fold, Army cartographer Alina Starkov finds her transport attacked by the monsters that dwell within. Faced with near-certain death, Alina calls upon a hidden power, and manages to push back the darkness. Returning to non-blighted land, Alina learns that she is a Grisha (witch/mage), and that she may be the only one who can save Ravka from the Shadow Fold. Suddenly thrust into the aristocratic world of the Grisha and Ravka court politics, Alina must master her gift, while at the same time learning to navigate the treacherous waters of court life. This is YA done right. Books like this keep me coming back to the genre when I feel that reading one more angsty book will drive me mad. The plot (this is the first installment in a trilogy) is well executed. The characters are still in their nascent phase, but show great promise. The requisite love triangle feels a bit more realistic than most entries in the YA genre. I especially enjoyed the way magic is handled, and the care the author shows in her world building. Bardugo has put together a grand vision, and she has the skill to translate that vision into a gorgeous work of fantasy. The story actually reminds me a bit of the Black Magician Trilogy by Trudi Canavan, another fantastic series in YA Fantasy. Fans of the young adult genre, young adult fantasy, and fantasy in general will enjoy this series. Even those who don’t typically read things in the YA sphere will find a lot to like in this book; it is technically a young adult novel, but it doesn’t read like one. I can’t wait to read the other books in the series.

Excellent first book. Love it enough to buy the next. I read it in one night. Adore the world and how the MC’s struggles and progress paced through the story. I did guess what would happen a couple times, but even so there were also surprises. Fascinated to keep going with this author’s works. She writes well, interspersing humor and touching romance.

The Shadow and Bone books were cute reads. The Trilogy had amazing world building and was the perfect introduction to Grishaverse. The books arrived in perfect condition.

I can’t believe it took me so long to start this book! I’ve had it downloaded for a while , but just started it yesterday. I read it in 2 days because I just couldn’t put it down. I loved the characters and their stories and the way the story flowed. I can’t wait to start the next book!

Review: shadow and bone HOLY CRAP This book is about Alina, an orphane girl, who has to cross the shadow fold. The shadow fold is this place were literally everything is darkness and dangerous creatures/monsters live there. A lot of people have to cross it for supplies, ect. While crossing the fold, Alina discovers she has a power! ( I won't spoil what happens next but her world will change dramatically). I had some trouble at the middle part because it got soo sloow ( There was a period of 100 pages where it was the same, it also semeed like a routine now) but I am grateful that I kept reading! This book was different, action packed, and overall amazing. I loved the mysterious air that was going around and Also hmm there is a love triangle going on. I could not stop reading. I really liked the characters, I felt so conected to them. Oh, there is also world building, the world of this series is spectacular. This book was mysterious. ( lol, I also liked the names such as Ravka, the Darkiling, Os Alta, ect). The world needs more stories like this!!! Just go & read it, you won't regret it! Perfect for fans of: Harry Potter and the mortal instruments Songs I listened to while reading: All we need feat. Shy girls & Islands by the electric sons 5/5 stars

Read it in one sitting last night. Absolutely loved it. The big twist was predictable, but only because it was similar to a story line that I had previously read, and that didn't make it any less enjoyable. The world built within the novel is both beautiful and glittery and impoverished and dirty. It's nice to see the highs and lows within the same story. Not to mention that the love story is intertwined within the plot rather than being the whole focus. Great read, and I can't wait to get the second one today.

I dont like fantasy novels with hours od side story. I liled that they kept all the attention on the main character. Learned after binge watching this on netflix.

This world is spectacularly built. The magic is nuanced and layered, the characters are fully fleshed and engaging. The protagonist is young and naive but still believable. The story sucks you in and leaves you wanting to know everything and more. I can't wait to see what other adventures we have in this new realm.

This book was recommended by Amazon for me so I bought it and had it on my kindle for a few weeks. I started it yesterday on my lunch break and ended up being late back to work!!! I then stayed up late last night and read until my eyes hurt. I finished it this evening and am going to purchase the next book in the trilogy right now. Great story with surprises and action with a touch of romance. I enjoyed this very much and highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys adventure mixed with fantasy, mystery and overall a great story.

I was enthralled with this novel from the get-go. With a love of Russia and a yearn to visit again, I looked forward to reading of this world the author has created for us. And I was not disappointed! The surrounding characters around the protagonists are so well-written, I found myself willing them to make the"right" decisions. I became so involved in their lives! Great writing on that part. Though the foundation of the love triangle reminds me a bit too much of "The Hunger Games"' Katniss/Gale/Peeta, the male characters involved in the "Shadow and Bone" love triangle are very different. Like the author, I have a weakness for a cunning villain. Loved this one! Can't wait for the next!

I used to gobble up books in one day when I was young, and I was wishing to be able to do that again. No matter what book I would pick up I couldn't do it. Until I read this one. It had me hooked after chapter 2. I read this book in just 2 days and am now going to start the second one. The author wrote its fantasy world and characters amazingly. The plot twist was also something that had me wanting to throw the book at the wall! If you need a book to start reading as you did in your younger years, start with this one!

I’m in love with this book. I read it in 4 days. I’m not big on reading but WOW did this story grab you and the twisted road it takes. Can’t wait to read the next one.

Netflix’s version has nothing on this book. I’m actually really disappointed just how much was left out of the show. Especially the love story components between two main characters. So glad I bought all 3 books!

The beginning of the Grishaverse starts with Alina, an orphan who discovers she has tremendous magical powers that can change the world but also be used for great evil. She learns that the greatest person she can trust is in herself. Loved this beginning story!

Tore through this book! Had to buy the next one as soon as I finished! Wow, lots of great twists and turns.

I got this book with a little bit of skepticism. Most YA feel extremely routine. But, this book really surprised me. I read it in 3 days! It’s a YA novel with a little more than the usual. A little bit darker perhaps. Very enjoyable read.

Loved this book! I was honestly kind of scared to read it as I saw some harsh reviews on amazon. I picked this book up so that I could work my way through the Grishaverse and read Six of Crows and the other books after this trilogy. I have to say my fears were disproved and this book was great. I loved the characters, story, and world it set up. I’ve since ordered the rest of the trilogy and plan to read more of Bardugos books. I definitely recommend!

I truly enjoyed Alina's adventure and realization of her potential. The story will keep your nose in your book and finishing it in the middle of the night. Can't wait for the rest of the series!

This is a beautiful nice special edition book. I gave it to my daughter for Christmas. She has it in a special place on a shelf in her room where she can see it every day.

This book was an amazing fantasy/romance book. I enjoyed every second of it and the twists and epic turns Leigh Bardugo put in made me feel so many different emotions. I would laugh and gasp and enjoyed every second of it. I couldn’t put it down! 5 star book, definitely would recommend for young adults.

This was such a great read. Leigh Bardugo captures you from the beginning, I could not turn the page fast enough. I can not wait to read the next book.

Shadow and Bone is one of those books. You know the ones. It's the kind of book that ensnares you, and from the moment you open it you can't seem to close it until you know how it ends. The author weaves a detailed world where a country (Ravka) is torn apart, literally, by the terrifying shadow fold that no one wishes to enter and yet that's exactly what our heroine is about to do. During the crossing of the fold, their skiff is attacked by creatures called volcra, a terrifying winged beast that feeds on human flesh. Mal, her best friend and only person she calls family, and Alina are forced to attempt to fend off the creatures. During the attack, Alina discovers she has a power she never knew she had. A power that just so happens to be a extremely rare and extremely desired trait among the Grisha, a group of powerful wizard like people that protect the king and guide travelers across the fold. Alina is immediately brought to the Darkling, the leader of the Grisha, and if we're being realistic, the leader of all of Ravka. Once she's discovered by the Darkling, she's wisked away from everything and everyone she has ever known and brought to the Little Palace to learn to become a Grisha and hopefully save them all from the shadow fold. This book had me wrapped around it's little finger from the very beginning, especially the mystery of the Darkling and the terrifying shadow fold. It will having you begging for more by the time your done. I'm desperate to learn what happens to Alina and Mal and personally can't wait for the next book in the Grisha series.

Well written. A great story. Simply written but wonderful. I enjoyed this very much. I'm looking forward to the next book.

This Book was a refreshing break from YA distopian novels. Good is good, evil is evil, and the characters make intelligent decisions. I loved it!

It's been a while since I've been so thoroughly engrossed in a book. This was the kind of book that kept me up late into the night, long after I should have been asleep, knowing that I would pay for it in the morning but not really giving a damn because it was that good. The world created here is one of myth and magic and Leigh Bardugo does an exceptional job. I'm not well versed in Russian folktales or mythology, but the Russian influence is felt throughout the narrative. What I liked: 1. Strong yet flawed female protagonist. One who isn't a Mary Sue or ridiculously endowed with special abilities that make her life easy. In fact, her ability kind of makes her life a living hell and forces her to make difficult decisions. There is no easy way out for Alina Starkov and it's her choices that make her such a strong character. 2. Tension. It's on every page. Bardugo is a master at weaving tension throughout the narrative. One of the reasons I found this book so difficult to put down. 3. Love interests. There are two, but it doesn't feel like a love triangle. It's also a bit difficult for a while for the reader to figure out who they want Alina Starkov to be with. (Well, at least it was for this reader). 4. Mythology. I don't really know enough about Russian folklore to say how much she drew upon it in order to right this series, but I think she's done a beautiful job of creating a mythical world that still has elements of an old world Russia. What I didn't like: 1. Honestly, I'm having a hard time coming up with something here. If i were to be really nitpicky, then I would say that Bardugo uses the word perfect a little too often. It's probably just a personal peeve but I dislike reading that word in fiction. It's too easy and means nothing to me. But seriously, that's it. I have nothing else to gripe about. I thought this book was an astounding debut and I look forward to the rest of the series.

In the community of YA, Leigh Bardugo manages to distinguish herself strongly from the get go. Her concepts are fresh and elaborate, while also playing on crucial problems we have in our modern day society such as religious discrimination, sexuality, and general acceptance. Bardugo left me guessing constantly with the first installment of this trilogy and I'm enthralled to dive deeper into the world of Grisha. If you're considering picking this up, it's a must!!