Review: Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo

Title: Shadow and Bone

Author: Leigh Bardugo

Publisher: Henry Holt & Co.

Publication Date: 6.5.2012

Pages: 358

Genre: Fantasy

Series: Grisha #1

Source: ARC from a friend

Rating: A

Summary (from Goodreads):

The Shadow Fold, a swathe of impenetrable darkness, crawling with monsters that feast on human flesh, is slowly destroying the once-great nation of Ravka.

Alina, a pale, lonely orphan, discovers a unique power that thrusts her into the lavish world of the kingdom’s magical elite—the Grisha. Could she be the key to unravelling the dark fabric of the Shadow Fold and setting Ravka free?

The Darkling, a creature of seductive charm and terrifying power, leader of the Grisha. If Alina is to fulfil her destiny, she must discover how to unlock her gift and face up to her dangerous attraction to him.

But what of Mal, Alina’s childhood best friend? As Alina contemplates her dazzling new future, why can’t she ever quite forget him?

Glorious. Epic. Irresistible. Romance.

Review:

This was a masterpiece. Bardugo crafted an amazing world. One you could only think actually existed. It was actually its own little world, complete with its own bit of history. Ravka and world it was in was magical, enchanting, exciting and suspenseful.

Alina, Mal, the Darkling, an even the other Grisha were so detailed. I know that Alina was the main character here but the glimpse you get of everyone makes it hard to have a favorite or even peg Alina as the main character. I loved reading into their lives and Leigh allows you to do just that.

Even with its fictional base, it's definitely believable. You can compare the Shadow Fold to any leverage that waring countries could have over each other. The advantage of controlling it and using anything or anyone to get that power translates easily.

I cannot wait to read more into this amazing world. I expect the sequel to be just as addictive as this.  Anyone who reads this will fall in love with Ravka, Alina, and her epic journey to discover herself, understand what's within her, and to follow her heart - not her eyes or ears.

Buy: Amazon | The Book Depository

Reviewer: Gabrielle